Are you a Sonic Drive-In fan who’s curious about the ingredients in their hamburger buns? Specifically, are you wondering if they contain high fructose corn syrup?
You’re not alone. Many people are concerned about the negative health effects of this sweetener and want to avoid it in their food.
In this article, we’ll explore whether or not Sonic hamburger buns contain high fructose corn syrup and provide some additional information about Sonic’s menu for those with dietary restrictions.
So, let’s dive in and find out the truth about Sonic’s buns!
Do Sonic Hamburger Buns Contain High Fructose Corn Syrup?
After conducting some research, we can confirm that Sonic hamburger buns do not contain high fructose corn syrup. This is great news for those who are looking to avoid this sweetener in their diet.
However, it’s important to note that Sonic’s menu does contain other items that may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions. For example, they do not offer many gluten-free options and their fried items are typically cooked in shared fryers with items containing milk or other allergens.
If you have specific dietary needs, it’s always best to check with your local Sonic restaurant to see what options are available and if they can accommodate any special requests.
Why High Fructose Corn Syrup Is A Concern
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a liquid sweetener made from corn that is commonly used in sodas and fruit-flavored drinks. Studies have shown that consuming HFCS increases appetite and promotes obesity more than regular sugar. In addition, HFCS has been linked to serious health problems such as fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes.
One study found that drinking sucrose-sweetened soda for six months significantly increased liver fat compared to drinking milk, diet soda, or water. Other research has also found that fructose can increase liver fat to a greater extent than equal amounts of glucose. This is because fructose is metabolized differently than other carbohydrates, leading to liver fat accumulation.
Furthermore, high fructose corn syrup can contribute to inflammation, high triglycerides, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It can even cause fibrosis or cirrhosis, making it the leading cause of liver failure and liver transplants in the United States.
While it’s important to note that the detrimental effects of fructose in added sugar should not be equated with the fructose in fruit, it’s still recommended to limit your intake of added sugars as much as possible. The average American consumed about 54.7 grams of fructose per day in 2008, which is about 10.2% of total daily calories.
Sonic’s Hamburger Bun Ingredients
Sonic’s hamburger buns are made without high fructose corn syrup. However, the ingredients for their buns are not readily available online. According to Sonic’s website, their hamburger buns are one of several bread options they offer, including bagels, hoagie buns, hot dog buns, soft pretzel twists, Texas toast, and tortillas.
It’s important to note that Sonic sources their bread from local bakeries in some locations, which may have different allergen risks. Therefore, it’s always best to check the ingredients at your local Sonic restaurant before ordering.
In addition, Sonic’s brioche buns, biscuits, and croissants do contain dairy. Their bun oil and liquid margarine are dairy-free but contain soy. It’s important to keep these ingredients in mind when ordering to avoid any potential allergies or dietary restrictions.
Analysis Of Sonic’s Hamburger Bun Ingredients
Sonic’s hamburger buns are made with several ingredients, including enriched flour, water, sugar, soybean oil, sesame seeds, yeast, salt, and calcium propionate. Enriched flour is a type of wheat flour that has been fortified with vitamins and minerals. Sugar is used to add sweetness to the buns, while soybean oil is used as a source of fat. Sesame seeds are added to the top of the buns for flavor and texture.
Calcium propionate is a common food preservative that is added to the buns to prevent mold and extend their shelf life. While it is generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts, some people may experience allergic reactions or other side effects from consuming this preservative.
Alternatives To High Fructose Corn Syrup At Sonic
If you’re looking to avoid high fructose corn syrup at Sonic, there are a few options available. One of the best choices is to try their Real Ice Cream, which is made with natural ingredients and does not contain high fructose corn syrup. You can enjoy a variety of frozen treats such as shakes, sundaes, and blasts with the assurance that they are made with real cream and natural toppings.
Another great alternative is to opt for herbal teas instead of fruit juice. Sonic offers a variety of herbal tea flavors such as chamomile and ginger, which can be a great alternative to sugary drinks. Green tea is also a great option as it provides potential health benefits including cancer prevention.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, Sonic does offer some menu items that do not contain high fructose corn syrup. For example, their Homestyle Baked Beans are a good choice as they are made without any added sweeteners or artificial flavors. Additionally, their burgers can be ordered without the bun if you are looking to avoid any potential hidden ingredients.
Other Menu Items For Those With Dietary Restrictions
For those with dietary restrictions, Sonic does offer some options that may fit within their dietary needs. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich (seasonal) and the Spicy Steak and Bacon Grilled Sandwich (no cheese, no cheese sauce) are both suitable for those following a low FODMAP diet, as they do not contain garlic or onion. However, it’s important to note that the brioche bun used for chicken sandwiches at Sonic contains dairy, so those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy should substitute a non-dairy bread option.
Additionally, for those who are avoiding high fructose corn syrup, it’s important to be aware that Sonic’s fried chicken patties may be cooked in shared fryers with items containing milk, which may contain this sweetener. However, the hamburger buns, wheat buns, hot dog buns and Texas toast do not contain high fructose corn syrup.
