High Fructose Corn Syrup Consumption By Country
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a common sweetener found in many foods and beverages. It is made from corn starch and is used as a substitute for sugar. In the United States, HFCS is the most commonly used sweetener, but its consumption is not limited to American shores. Let’s take a look at how high fructose corn syrup consumption varies by country.
United States
The United States is the largest consumer of high fructose corn syrup in the world. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans consume an average of 27 pounds of HFCS per year. This amount is equivalent to 60 pounds of sugar per person per year.
HFCS is commonly found in American foods such as soda, candy, and processed snacks. Many experts believe that the overconsumption of HFCS has contributed to the obesity epidemic in the United States.
Mexico
Mexico is the second-largest consumer of high fructose corn syrup in the world. According to a study published in the Nutrition Journal, Mexicans consume an average of 64 grams of HFCS per day, which is equivalent to 130 calories per person per day.
HFCS is commonly found in Mexican foods such as sweetened beverages, pastries, and sweet bread. Mexico has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world, and experts believe that the overconsumption of HFCS may be a contributing factor.
Canada
Canada is another country that has high fructose corn syrup consumption. According to Statistics Canada, Canadians consume an average of 20 grams of HFCS per day, which is equivalent to 40 calories per person per day.
HFCS is commonly found in Canadian foods such as soda, fruit juice, and baked goods. While Canada’s obesity rates are lower than those in the United States and Mexico, the overconsumption of HFCS is still a concern.
Europe
Europe has lower high fructose corn syrup consumption than the United States and Mexico. According to a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Europeans consume an average of 2 grams of HFCS per day, which is equivalent to 4 calories per person per day.
HFCS is not as commonly found in European foods as it is in American and Mexican foods. This is because many European countries have implemented stricter regulations on the use of HFCS in food products.
Conclusion
High fructose corn syrup consumption varies widely by country. The United States and Mexico have the highest consumption rates, while Europe has the lowest consumption rates. While HFCS is a common sweetener in many foods and beverages, overconsumption has been linked to obesity and other health issues. It is important for individuals to be aware of the amount of HFCS in the foods they consume and to make healthier choices when possible.
