Tag: Sugar substitutes

Contrary to a widely held belief, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is not banned in Europe, although its use was heavily restricted until 2017 due to a historical EU sugar quota system. These market limitations, along with different agricultural policies and regulatory philosophies, account for its significantly lower consumption in Europe compared to the United States.

In 2024, a study published in the *European Heart Journal* linked high levels of the sugar substitute xylitol to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, igniting a wave of online misinformation and concern over whether the sweetener was being banned. Contrary to sensationalist headlines, regulatory bodies like the FDA have not banned xylitol, but recent findings warrant a closer look at its potential risks alongside its established benefits.