<P> Corn syrup's major uses in commercially prepared foods are as a thickener, a sweetener and as a humectant--an ingredient that retains moisture and thus maintains a food's freshness . Corn syrup (or HFCS) is the primary ingredient in most brands of commercial "pancake syrup", as a less expensive substitute for maple syrup . </P> <P> In the United States, cane sugar quotas raise the price of sugar; hence, domestically produced corn syrup and high - fructose corn syrup are less costly alternatives that are often used in American - made processed and mass - produced foods, candies, soft drinks and fruit drinks . </P> <P> Glucose syrup was the primary corn sweetener in the United States prior to the expanded use of high fructose corn syrup production . HFCS is a variant in which other enzymes are used to convert some of the glucose into fructose . The resulting syrup is sweeter and more soluble . Corn syrup is also available as a retail product . </P> <P> If mixed with sugar, water and cream of tartar, corn syrup can be used to make sugar glass . </P>

Where does corn syrup come from in the world