With the demonization of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), sugar is making something of a comeback on ingredient lists. HFCS has long been preferred as a sweetener because of its advantages in price (due in large part to U.S. sugar tariffs) and processing.

But sugar is gaining traction as a more “natural” ingredient. New products formulated to avoid HFCS include Healthy Choice All Natural entrees from ConAgra Foods, some salad dressings from Kraft Foods and soft drinks like Pepsi Natural cola. Some retailers, especially in Hispanic neighborhoods, have begun stocking “Mexican Coke,” sweetened with sugar, in the glass bottles familiar in Mexico-and watching them fly off the shelves.