Corn Syrup
Corn Syrup is a viscous, sweet liquid derived from the enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch. It consists primarily of glucose and maltose along with higher saccharides, providing sweetness, viscosity, and moisture retention in food formulations. Corn Syrup is widely used in food and beverage industries as a sweetener, humectant, and texture enhancer. Its ability to prevent crystallization and retain moisture makes it essential in confectionery, baking, and processed foods. Industrial grades of corn syrup are also used in pharmaceuticals and other manufacturing applications where its binding and stabilizing properties are valued.
Corn Syrup Uses
Primary Uses
Food Industry
- Used as a sweetener and humectant in baked goods, candies, soft drinks, and processed foods.
- Prevents sugar crystallization in confectionery products like caramels, toffees, and syrups, ensuring smooth texture.
- Enhances moisture retention and shelf life of bakery items and frozen desserts.
- Acts as a thickening agent and flavor carrier in sauces, dressings, and beverages.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as a binder and sweetening agent in syrups and oral liquid formulations.
- Serves as a humectant in topical formulations to maintain moisture.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Functions as a moisturizing agent and texture enhancer in creams, lotions, and hair care products.
Fermentation Industry
- Serves as a carbon source for microbial fermentation in producing biofuels and enzymes.
Industrial Applications
- Used as a feedstock in the production of biodegradable plastics and adhesives.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Mixture of glucose, maltose, and oligosaccharides
- Common/Trade Name: Corn Syrup
- CAS Number: Not applicable (mixture)
- HS Code: 1702.90.90
- Molecular Formula: Variable (mainly C6H12O6 for glucose)
- Synonyms:
- Glucose syrup
- Liquid glucose
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Thick, viscous liquid
- Color & Odor: Clear to pale yellow; sweet odor
- Melting Point: Not applicable
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Density: ~1.38 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility: Miscible with water; insoluble in organic solvents
- pH (10% solution): 4.0–6.0
- Viscosity: High, depending on solids content (DE value)
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific limits; non-toxic
- Toxicity: Non-toxic and non-irritant
- Reactivity: Chemically stable
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from contamination and microbial growth
- Container Type: Food-grade sealed containers or drums
- Shelf Life: 1–2 years under proper storage
- Special Handling: Avoid microbial contamination; clean equipment to prevent spoilage
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: GRAS for use as a food additive and sweetener (21 CFR § 184.1866)
- REACH Status: Registered for industrial use
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Biodegradable; dispose according to local regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable
- Persistence: Biodegradable in soil and water
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
-
Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Gloves and protective eyewear recommended when handling in bulk
Handling Measures:
- Avoid microbial contamination during transfer and storage
- Maintain hygienic conditions to prevent spoilage
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly sealed
- Store away from heat and moisture
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid contamination in food-grade applications
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not applicable; low volatility
- Skin Contact: Generally non-irritant; wash with water if needed
- Eye Contact: Flush with water if irritation occurs
- Ingestion: Non-toxic; no adverse effects expected
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible when dry; wet syrup has low flammability
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguisher
- Special Precautions: Prevent dust formation from dried syrup residues
- Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides when burned