The article discusses the rise and dominance of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in the American food industry, linking its prevalence to government subsidies, tariffs, and influential corporate lobbying, particularly by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). Although HFCS consumption in the U.S. has been declining due to health concerns, its initial popularity was significantly boosted by political connections and economic strategies that favored corn subsidies over sugar imports, leading to HFCS becoming the cheaper sweetener for many food and beverage companies. Despite ongoing debates about the health implications of HFCS and criticism from political figures, it remains a staple in the American diet, largely supported by entrenched agricultural policies.

Key Points:

• High fructose corn syrup's rise was driven by government subsidies and tariffs favoring domestic corn production.
• Political figures, including influential lobbyists like Dwayne Andreas of ADM, played significant roles in shaping pro-corn legislation.
• Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi switched to HFCS in the 1980s due to its lower cost.
• Despite declining use of HFCS in recent years, it is still prevalent in processed foods due to profitability and established supply chains.
• Tariffs on imported sugar make HFCS more economically attractive for food producers, leading to higher consumer costs.
• Health concerns regarding HFCS persist, but agricultural policies remain favorable to its continued use.
• Economic benefits from existing policies predominantly favor a small number of sugar and corn producers at the expense of broader consumer interests.
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