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High-fructose corn syrup: is this what's for dinner?
Kiyah J Duffey1, Barry M Popkin
1Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|December 10, 2008
Summary
US consumption of added sugar and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) increased significantly, with HFCS providing 8% of total energy intake by 2004. Soft drinks and fruit drinks were major sources of HFCS, while sweetened tea and desserts contributed significantly to added sugar intake.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Dietary Trends Analysis
- Public Health Research
Background:
- Previous research on US added sugar and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) consumption primarily focused on beverages.
- Other significant sources of added sugar and HFCS in the US diet have been largely overlooked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze long-term trends in the availability and intake of added sugar and HFCS in the United States.
- To differentiate consumption patterns between beverages and various food groups.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two estimation techniques with data from national surveys: Nationwide Food Consumption Surveys (1965, 1977), Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (1989-1991), and National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (1999-2004).
- Examined trends in both overall HFCS and added sugar intake, as well as within specific food and beverage categories.
Main Results:
- HFCS and added sugar availability and consumption rose over time, with a slight decrease observed between 2000 and 2004.
- By 2004, HFCS contributed approximately 8% to total energy intake, while total added sugar accounted for 17%.
- Soft drinks and fruit drinks were primary sources of HFCS, whereas sweetened teas and desserts were major contributors of added sugar calories.
Conclusions:
- While the rise in HFCS calorie intake warrants attention, the broader health implications of overall added caloric sweetener trends should not be disregarded.
- Comprehensive analysis of all caloric sweeteners is crucial for understanding dietary impacts.
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