Description

Corn syrup is a highly-refined, quickly-absorbed light colored syrup derived from corn. It is made using cornstarch, and composed mainly of glucose. The pulpy middle layer called cornstarch is first separated from the outer husk and the inner germ layer. The cornstarch is then stored in giant vats, where natural enzymes are added to break it down into glucose. It is these sugars which are heated and turned into what we call corn syrup. The light form of corn syrup may have vanilla flavoring added, while the dark corn syrup has a stronger natural flavor.

The advantage of corn syrup over sugar is its resistance to crystallization. A candy lollipop made with corn syrup will retain its smooth texture, while a similar treat made from pure sugar may turn into a hardened rock candy. Corn syrup also prohibits crystal formation when sugar is added to a cake or fudge mixture. Its major uses in commercially-prepared foods are as a thickener, sweetener, and for its moisture-retaining (humectant) properties which keep foods moist and help to maintain freshness.

Light corn syrup

Light corn syrup is clarified and decolorized and usually contains some vanilla for flavor.

High fructose corn syrup

High fructose corn syrup is an artificially created sweetener that is most often derived from corn starch, a combination of sucrose and fructose.

How to Select

Corn syrup is commercially available in stores. Corn syrup can be naturally light in color which is often used in candy making or darker which is usually used for general baking purposes.

Culinary uses

· Corn syrup is popular in baked goods, candy, frostings, jams, jellies, etc.
· Corn syrup can be used to make cookies, rice crispies, caramel snack mixes, nutritional bars, ice creams, sorbets.
· Corn syrup may be added in any cereal and had as a dessert or a healthy breakfast on the go with fruits.
· It is a common ingredient for chocolates, fudges, cakes and biscuits

How to store

Store corn syrup in tightly sealed containers at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Health Benefits

· Corn syrup can pose considerable risks to people who suffer from non-insulin dependent diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, and postmenopausal women.
· And while it may be perfectly harmless to consume corn syrup in moderation, restrict eating too much of corn syrup containing cookies, candies and soft drinks.
· An easy and less expensive alternative to corn syrup would be to make a simple syrup out of sugar and water.
· Alternative sweeteners that can be used include molasses, Cane Syrup, maple syrup, golden syrup.