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Corn Refiners Seek HFCS, 'Corn Sugar' Switch

WASHINGTON — The Corn Refiners Association is seeking to change the name of high fructose corn syrup to “corn sugar.” If successful the Food and Drug Administration would allow manufacturers the option of using the alternate name.

WASHINGTON — The Corn Refiners Association is seeking to change the name of high fructose corn syrup to “corn sugar.” If successful the Food and Drug Administration would allow manufacturers the option of using the alternate name.

In its petition the CRA contends that high fructose corn syrup is not high in fructose when compared with commonly used nutritive sweeteners like table sugar, honey and fruit juice concentrates. Therefore ‘corn sugar’ is a better choice.

“The term ‘corn sugar’ succinctly and accurately describes what this natural ingredient is and where it comes from — corn,” said Audrae Erickson, president of the CRA, in a statement.

The request comes after CPG companies like ConAgra have taken steps to remove the controversial ingredient from products like Hunt’s ketchup. Wheat Thins, Ocean Spray cranberry juice, and Pepsi and Mountain Dew Throwback have also replaced the sweetener.