Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in honey and some types of fruit and is also manufactured commercially for use as a sweetener in crystalline (powdered) form. High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a commercially produced product that contains fructose and other forms of sugar.
Function
Different forms of fructose are used by the food industry as sweeteners in wide variety of products, including carbonated beverages, baked goods, sauces, snacks, nutrition bars and dairy products.
Identification
Crystalline fructose is 100 percent fructose. Pears, apples, bananas, berries and other fruits contain up to 65 percent fructose. HFCS contains 55 percent, white table sugar contains 45 percent and honey contains 48 percent, according to the International Food Information Council.
Benefits
Pure fructose is the sweetest of all sugars yet it is low on the glycemic index, which means it does not cause extreme highs and lows in blood sugar.
Misconceptions
Pure fructose is not the same product as HFCS. HFCS contains fructose and glucose (corn sugar). HFCS is not the same as regular corn syrup, which is mostly glucose.
Fun Fact
If you've had a few too many drinks, the fructose in honey or fruit juice can help your body more quickly metabolize alcohol and move it out of your system.
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