FDA declares that HFCS can be labeled as natural

WASHINGTON, DC – The Corn Refiners Association
today welcomed clarification received from the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration concerning the use of the term natural for products
containing High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS).

“Upon careful review of the manufacturing process for High Fructose
Corn Syrup, the FDA found that HFCS can be labeled natural,” stated
Audrae Erickson, president, Corn Refiners Association. “HFCS contains
no artificial or synthetic ingredients or color additives and meets
FDA’s requirements for the use of the term ‘natural.’ HFCS, like table
sugar and honey, is natural. It is made from corn, a natural grain
product.”

Specifically, the FDA stated “we would not object to the use of the
term ‘natural’ on a product containing the HFCS produced by the
manufacturing process.” commonly employed in the corn refining
industry. A copy of the letter clarifying FDA’s views on the use of the
term natural for products containing HFCS can be found at www.corn.org/FDAdecision7-7-08.pdf.

CRA is the national trade association representing the corn refining
(wet milling) industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors
have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913.
Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, bioproducts,
corn oil, and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil,
protein, and fiber.