So just in case we all aren’t confused enough by the terminology and symbols being used by the food industry – now they want to change the name of High Fructose Corn Syrup to Corn Sugar?  And doing this name makeover will change the health impact?  Not neccesarily.   

The Corn Refiners Association is asking the FDA to let manufacturers use this “corn sugar” term instead.  Why?  Because they say current terminology is confusing for the consumer.  But could it be that the consumer is more educated on the potential harm from HFCS and therefore have been decreasing their consumption?   This change seems like an attempt to make the consumer believe that foods with this added, potentially-irritating ingredient aren’t all that bad.

High Fructose Corn Syrup is abundantly found in our food supply.  You’ve seen it in everything from sugary soda to whole wheat bread .  Because of the significant consumption of this added ingredient, by any name, the numbers of people suffering from obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome has reached an epidemic.  

To me.  Call it like it is.  Something we are familiar with, so can make well-informed choices.  Don’t trick me into thinking it is better.  And if you want to change something, remove it from your product.

As manufacturers and consumers battle it out while trying to unravel the mystery of “what to buy” , there have been different labeling programs that have developed.  As a Dietitian, I get fairly frustrated with the added confusion this brings.  Ultimately it is designed to help the consumer (You) have an easier time picking out healthful choices in the store.   But does it make it easier or more complicated?  It seems, more complicated.

I am sure you have seen these labels on foods you would never think would be a healthy choice, like sugared breakfast cereal that is about 40% sugar?  Seems like something is mixed up.  Per the package – one cereal is supposed to “improve immunity” and another “lowers your cholesterol 4 points if you eat 3 cups of it a day”.  My question is 4 points?  What good is that.  And really is breakfast cereal the best choice to get you started in the day?  And 3 cups of it every day?   

Well, it is being noticed.  And I think it needs to be.  But where do we go from here? 

I think we need to find an answer to this and quickly. 

But wait – we have one.  Rely less on what the food labels says and eat foods that don’t come with a standard food label.  Natural, wholesome foods that have not been altered by food manufacturers. 

This remains our best choice. 

See more about this….http://bit.ly/1BjVWd