Corn Syrup

Sugar

Added Sugar
May be Bioengineered

Definition

A sweet syrup made from cornstarch through acid or enzymatic processing.

Also Known As

Corn Sugar, Glucose Syrup

Health Impact

Corn syrup that is not labeled organic is likely sourced from GMO or bioengineered corn. Check for the warning "Contains a bioengineered ingredient" in the ingredients list to confirm. Corn syrup is high in added sugars and if over consumed, can lead to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. If this additive is produced using a mercury-based method, than products could contain trace amounts of mercury which can be harmful to humans, especially infants and children. It may be contaminated with pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants that can pose health risks if consumed in high amounts. Excessive added sugar intake is associated with adverse health conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory diseases. Excessive sugar consumption may trigger neuroadaptations in the brain that decouple eating behavior from caloric needs and leads to compulsive overeating. The American Heart Association suggests an added-sugar limit of no more than 24 grams of sugar for most women and no more than 36 grams of sugar for most men each day.