WASHINGTON — The Grocery Manufacturers Association released a science paper here yesterday on high fructose corn syrup that promotes the ingredient as safe, relatively inexpensive and versatile. "An expert panel convened by the University of Maryland Center for Food, Nutrition and Agriculture Policy concluded that 'HFCS does not appear to contribute to overweight and obesity any differently than any other energy sources' and research is conclusive that sugars do not cause diabetes," said Robert Brackett, chief science officer for GMA, in a statement. "Consumers can be reassured that HFCS is just like any other caloric sweetener to be enjoyed in moderation in the context of a health-promoting lifestyle." HFCS has been the source of controversy and was last year banned by PCC Natural Markets due to its “potentially damaging effects on health,” according to company spokeswoman Diana Crane.

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