Moderation of Sugars - From the Experts
James M. Rippe, M.D., Cardiologist and Biomedical Sciences Professor at the University of Central Florida discusses family nutrition concerns, moderation and high fructose corn syrup.
Educational Toolkit
Webinars are a great way to learn more about high fructose corn syrup.
HFCS Facts
Is high fructose corn syrup a "natural" sweetener? Answers to frequently asked questions are available.
What is HFCS?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener made from corn and can be found in numerous foods and
beverages on grocery store shelves in the United States.
High fructose corn syrup is composed of either 42 percent or 55 percent fructose, with the remaining sugars being primarily glucose and higher sugars. In terms of composition, high fructose corn syrup is nearly identical to table sugar (sucrose), which is composed of 50 percent fructose and 50 percent glucose. Glucose is one of the simplest forms of sugar that serves as a building block for most carbohydrates. Fructose is a simple sugar commonly found in fruits and honey.
High fructose corn syrup is used in foods and beverages because of the many benefits it offers. In addition to providing sweetness at a level equivalent to sugar,(1) High fructose corn syrup enhances fruit and spice flavors in foods such as yogurt and spaghetti sauces, gives chewy breakfast bars their soft texture and also protects freshness. High fructose corn syrup keeps products fresh by maintaining consistent moisture. (2)