High Fructose Corn Syrup: Confections Nutritional Value | The Hershey Company

What is high fructose corn syrup?

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener that is similar to table sugar. Its name may be misleading, as both contain approximately equal amounts of glucose and fructose. Glucose is one of the simplest forms of sugar that serves as a building block for most carbohydrates and provides the body with necessary energy. Fructose is also a simple sugar commonly found in fruits and honey. According to current scientific research, HFCS and table sugar are broken down and used by the human body in the same way.

Are high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and corn syrup the same thing?

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and corn syrup are similar but they are not the same. Both are made from corn starch and are used to provide sweetness in food products. They differ in the types and amounts of simple sugars they contain. Corn syrups contain mostly glucose. High fructose corn syrup undergoes an extra process to convert some of its glucose to fructose. High fructose corn syrup gets its name because it has a higher amount of fructose compared to corn syrup.

Why does The Hershey Company use HFCS?

The Hershey Company uses a variety of sweeteners to deliver products with well-known tastes and textures while maintaining our high quality standards. Different types of sweeteners are better suited for different types of products. High fructose corn syrup, although used sparingly, provides better functional properties in selected products.

Does HFCS cause obesity?

In June 2008, the American Medical Association reviewed the science and concluded that high fructose corn syrup does not appear to contribute more to obesity than other caloric sweeteners. High fructose and table sugar contain the same number of calories – 4 calories per gram or 16 calories per teaspoon. For consumers, it is important to manage overall calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight. Weight gain occurs when more calories are consumed than burned. No single food or ingredient is the sole cause of obesity.

Is high fructose corn syrup safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved high fructose corn syrup as a safe ingredient for use in foods and beverages. The FDA based its decision in part on the similarity between high fructose corn syrup and table sugar (sucrose).