Foods That Contan High Fructose Corn Syrup

Apr 22, 2010 | By Sapna Pathak

According to registered dietician Kim Dorval, the link between consumption of high fructose corn syrup and obesity continues to increase as consumers rely more and more on processed foods, fast foods and instant snacks. High fructose corn syrup is an ingredient used in many baked goods, breads, soft drinks and soups. HFCS is made when the glucose in cornstarch is chemically converted to glucose, another type of sugar.

Soft Drinks

The Future of Freedom Foundation reports that both Coca-Cola and Pepsi announced plans to stop using sugar and start using high-fructose corn syrup in their soft drinks on November 6, 1984. A combination of glucose and sucrose, HFCS allows sodas to maintain their sweet taste but also have a longer shelf-life. "The problem isn't the corn syrup part, it's the fructose part," said Dorval. "The body can break down the glucose in corn syrup for energy, but with fructose, it does not stimulate insulin or leptin. These hormones combine to tell the body it's full and whether or not to store fat."

Canned Goods

Soups, canned condiments and sauces contain high fructose corn syrup to help preserve taste. Using HFCS is cheaper than using sugar, and it extends the shelf-life of processed foods. Canned soups, relishes, pickles, sauces and vegetables labeled "fat-free" or "low-fat" are also prime candidates to have high fructose corn syrup as part of their ingredients. "Don't let that fool you and think it's totally healthy because it's fat-free," said Dorval. "Of course, consuming less fat is healthy, but if you're replacing that fat with fructose from HFCS, then it's the same thing as eating the full-fat version."

Condiments

Salad dressings, ketchup, mustard, dipping sauces, and some fruit jellies and spreads contain high fructose corn syrup in large amounts, according to Dorval. Fast food salads and sandwiches are easy ways for consumers to take in excess HFCS without even thinking about it. "You need to always check the ingredients of what you're eating and read those labels the right way," said Dorval. "People think that condiments are full of fat and oil, which some are, but even the ones with low calories have high amounts of HFCS. If possible, stay away from the condiments and toppings, or limit them if you absolutely need to."