Fructose is a naturally occurring simple sugar (monosaccharide) found in fruits, honey, and some vegetables.

It is one of the sweetest sugars, often used as a sweetening agent in food and beverages due to its intense sweetness and ability to enhance flavor profiles.

Fructose is absorbed directly into the bloodstream during digestion and provides a quick source of energy.

There are two primary forms of fructose used in the beverage and food industry:

1. Crystalline Fructose: A purified, dry form of fructose commonly used in powdered beverages, energy drinks, and baked goods.

2. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): A liquid sweetener made from cornstarch, containing varying proportions of fructose and glucose. It's widely used in carbonated drinks and processed foods.