Derived from cornstarch, High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is found in a number of food items, including soda, salad dressing, candy, and barbecue sauce. It is often used because it extends the shelf life of certain foods without detracting from their flavor. Even so, a number of health issues are related to this additive, making high-fructose free barbecue sauces a better option instead.
Obesity and Diabetes
High fructose corn syrup changes the way the body metabolizes fat, and can therefore lead to excessive weight gain. This weight gain may also lead to an increased risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. In addition, HFCS contains larger amounts of fructose than table sugar. The body has a hard time processing this extra fructose, which is something else that significantly increases your risk of developing diabetes.
Other Health Risks
There are other health risks associated with high levels of HFCS, including:
- Elevated levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Increased risk of stroke or heart attack
- Liver damage
- High levels of mercury in the blood, which can ultimately damage the nervous system
Alternatives
Since an estimated one-third of all store-bought foods are thought to contain high fructose corn syrup, you must be extremely diligent at researching brands and reading labels to uncover hidden sources. You should also avoid using HFCS when cooking, instead substituting it with honey, real maple syrup, or brown or white granulated sugar.
High fructose corn syrup is not something you’ll have to worry about when you purchase our sauces. We use healthy ingredients such as brown sugar and vinegar to give our sauces a sweet yet tangy flavor. Our sauces are also available in varieties ranging from very mild to unbearably hot and spicy, so there is something to fit every taste. Try one of our sauces today, and we think you’ll agree they taste delicious as well.