Ingredient Information
Summary
Glucose Syrup is a sweetener made by breaking down starch, usually from corn, wheat, rice, or potatoes, into glucose and other simple sugars. It is widely used in gummies and supplements as a binder, sweetener, and texture stabiliser. Unlike sucrose (table sugar), which is a disaccharide of glucose and fructose, glucose syrup contains primarily glucose, often with maltose and other saccharides. In gummies, glucose syrup helps create a smooth, chewy texture, prevents crystallisation, and enhances shelf life.
Key Facts
- Type: Sweetener (syrup derived from starch)
- Natural source: Corn, wheat, rice, or potatoes
- Typical supplemental dose: Used in gummies at around 2–5 g
- Used for: Sweetness, binding, texture, anti-crystallisation, shelf-life extension
- First discovered: Commercial production began in the 19th century
What Is Glucose Syrup?
Glucose syrup is produced by enzymatically hydrolysing starch into simpler sugars, mainly glucose. The final syrup can vary in sweetness and thickness depending on the degree of hydrolysis. In food and supplement manufacturing, glucose syrup is valued for its versatility: it adds sweetness without being as intense as sucrose, prevents sugar crystallisation, and provides the right chewiness in gummies. It is different from sucrose (table sugar) and high-fructose corn syrup, as it contains little to no fructose.
How It Works In The Body
Glucose from glucose syrup is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine and used as a quick source of energy by the body’s cells. However, in gummies, its main role is functional rather than nutritional — controlling texture, preventing crystallisation, and improving stability. Like other forms of added sugar, excessive consumption can contribute to increased calorie intake and blood sugar spikes.
Safety & Interactions
- Glucose syrup is generally recognised as safe for use in foods and supplements.
- Excessive intake may contribute to weight gain, dental cavities, or elevated blood sugar levels.
- It should be consumed in moderation, particularly by individuals with diabetes or those managing blood sugar.
- There are no known significant interactions with medications.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely consume glucose syrup in food, but should follow general guidance on limiting added sugars.
Always consult your health practitioner before taking nutritional supplements, especially if you are taking medication or are under medical supervision. You should not take supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet or healthy lifestyle.
FAQs
Why is glucose syrup used in gummies?
It provides sweetness, prevents crystallisation, and gives gummies their smooth, chewy texture.
Is glucose syrup the same as sugar?
No, glucose syrup is made from starch and contains mainly glucose, whereas sucrose (table sugar) is a combination of glucose and fructose.
Does glucose syrup have health benefits?
Not directly — its role in supplements is functional, though it does provide a quick source of energy.
References
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35563947/
Review of starch hydrolysis and glucose syrup production
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560599/
Effects of glucose and other sugars on metabolism and energy availability
3. https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.2903/j.efsa.2004.126
EFSA safety evaluation of glucose syrups derived from wheat and maize.
Our products that contain Glucose Syrup
Where next?
Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes or starting new supplements.