“There are a number of [HFCS] critics who have not provided a shred of evidence that high fructose syrup is worse than sucrose,” says Michael Jacobson, founder of CSPI.

According to a recent University of Maryland study, there isn’t enough research to conclude that high fructose corn syrup contributes to weight gain any more than any other energy source, including sugar and fructose.

“We did not find evidence to support claims that high fructose corn syrup is in any way unique,” says Dr. Richard Forshee, Deputy Director & Director of Research for the University of Maryland’s Center for Food, Nutrition and Agriculture Policy.

A study published in the July issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted there is no unique link between sweeteners and obesity. The report also showed there is no difference between cola beverages sweetened with high fructose corn syrup or sucrose (table sugar) when it comes to hunger, satiety, or subsequent caloric intake.

“Concerning weight management, this study supports that there is absolutely nothing mystical about any food ingredient or category—it is simply a matter of calories in, calories out,” says Dr. Richard H. Adamson, scientific consultant to the American Beverage Association. “All the theorizing about high fructose corn syrup being uniquely associated with obesity—or diet beverages increasing appetite—is just plain nonsense put forth by those with an agenda that is not based in sound science.”

There’s so little research against high fructose corn syrup that the National Restaurant Association (NRA) does not have an official position, says Annika Stensson, a spokesperson for the NRA. Instead, the group is dedicated its efforts and attention to monitoring legal issues and consumer attitudes toward trans fats and sodium.

Quick-service brands, however, are paying attention. While Burger King says studies are inconclusive on high fructose corn syrup, the chain plans to continue to watch consumer reaction to the issue.

Keva Silversmith, a spokesperson for the company, added that high fructose corn syrup and other sugars are “considered generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.”