Corn Syrup
Prorduction
Corn syrups are produced by either acid, enzyme3 acid-enzyme combination hydrolysis of
cornstarch and are generally available in several grades, varying in degree of conversion [dextrose
equivalent (DE)] and solids content (degrees Baume)
Manufacture3,6
The manufacture of all corn sweeteners begins with the hydrolysis of cornstarch, a process
involving the splitting of the starch molecules by Chemical reaction with water. A variety of acids
will affect the conversion, The manufacturing time and temperature are varied depending on the
type of corn sweetener to be manufactured. As the reaction progresses, the gelatinized starch is
converted first to other polysaccharides and subsequently to sugars, mostly maltose and dextrose.
The sugar content increases and viscosity decreases as the conversion proceeds. Complete
hydrolysis produces dextrose. The hydrolysis of the starch is halted when partially complete-to
produce corn syrup, the exact degree depending on the type of syrup being made. Partial
hydrolysis of starch converts part of the starch completely to dextrose1 he remainder, which is not
completely hydrolyzed to dextrose, consists of maltose and higher saccharides. The proportions of
saccharides vary, depending on the extent and method of hydrolysis.