• High fructose corn syrup is one of the most widely used sweeteners. It is made from corn and can be found in many foods. High fructose corn syrup serves as more than just a sweetening agent, though. It has other properties that can enhance and improve the quality of many products in ways that may surprise you.
  
  

Sweetener

• High fructose corn syrup is soluble in water and imparts a taste as sweet as sugar. Because of this quality, it frequently is used in soft drinks, drink concentrates and other beverages, as well as in Popsicles, frozen fruit bars and other similar products. High fructose corn syrup can be used to control the tartness of such foods as tomatoes in spaghetti sauces and yogurts.
  
  

Humectant

• A humectant is a substance that keeps an item moist. High fructose corn syrup is hygroscopic, which means it attracts water from the atmosphere. As a food additive, high fructose corn syrup acts as a humectant in low- and intermediate-moisture foods--such as baked goods--to maintain a moist consistency, prevent crystallization and improve shelf life.
  
  

Texture

• The long glucose polymer chains in high fructose corn syrup provide cohesiveness and adhesiveness. This imparts a chewiness in such items as gums, granola bars and candies. It also adds a glossy appearance to canned fruit syrups, and improves clarity and viscosity in jams, jellies and fruit fillings.
  
  

Fermentation

• High fructose corn syrup also is used to improve the yeast fermentation process. The syrup acts as a food source for the yeast, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide as a by-product. It often is used for this purpose in brewing, baking and yogurt production.
  
  

Reduction Properties

• In the food industry, high fructose corn syrup can improve the browning of baked goods. It also can impart pleasing flavors, smells and color when used as an ingredient. It often is used as a caramelizing agent.
  
  

Freezing Control

• In frozen fruits, frozen juice concentrates, ice creams and other frozen treats, high fructose corn syrup can help adjust the freezing point. The syrup can do this because it has a lower freezing temperature than sugar. In frozen foods, corn syrup also can improve self life and inhibit spoilage.