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Hidden carbs / Sugar & syrup

Is high-fructose corn syrup keto?

Not keto-friendlyCounts in full

No. Corn syrup with part of its glucose converted to fructose. For keto purposes it is the same as sugar.

What it is

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is corn syrup in which enzymes turn some of the glucose into fructose, so it tastes as sweet as table sugar. In Europe it is often labeled glucose-fructose syrup.

Whatever you think about it nutritionally, the keto answer is simple: it is sugar, and it counts in full.

How to count it

Count every gram toward your net carbs.

Sugar under another name. Count every gram.

Where you will find it

  • Soda and juice drinks
  • Ketchup, BBQ sauce and dressings
  • Bread and buns
  • Yogurt and desserts

Also listed as

high fructose corn syruphfcsglucose-fructose syrupglucose fructose syrupfructose-glucose syrupisoglucosefructose syrup
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General nutrition information, not medical advice. Products and formulas change, so check the nutrition panel too. If you manage diabetes or take medication that affects blood sugar, ask your doctor how to count these ingredients. See our health disclaimer.

Quick answers

Is high-fructose corn syrup keto?

No. Corn syrup with part of its glucose converted to fructose. For keto purposes it is the same as sugar.

Does high-fructose corn syrup count toward net carbs?

Counts in full. Count every gram toward your net carbs.

What is high-fructose corn syrup?

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is corn syrup in which enzymes turn some of the glucose into fructose, so it tastes as sweet as table sugar. In Europe it is often labeled glucose-fructose syrup.

What other names does it go by on a label?

high fructose corn syrup, hfcs, glucose-fructose syrup, glucose fructose syrup, fructose-glucose syrup, isoglucose, fructose syrup.

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