As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that yes, there is corn syrup in Coors Light. Coors Light, along with its counterpart Miller Light, both use corn syrup as their main sugar source during the brewing process. This is a common practice in the brewing industry and is used to provide fermentable sugars that yeast can convert into alcohol.
Corn syrup, which is derived from corn starch, is a commonly used adjunct in brewing. It is added to the malted barley to increase the sugar content of the wort, which is the liquid extracted from the grains during the mashing process. The yeast then consumes these sugars and produces alcohol, resulting in the beer we enjoy.
The use of corn syrup in beer production has been a topic of debate and controversy in recent years. Some beer enthusiasts argue that the use of adjuncts like corn syrup can negatively impact the flavor and quality of the beer. Others argue that it is simply a matter of personal preference and that there is no inherent difference in taste between beers brewed with corn syrup versus those brewed without it.
From a brewing perspective, the choice of sugar source, whether it be corn syrup, rice, or other adjuncts, can have an impact on the beer's flavor, body, and mouthfeel. Different sugars can contribute different characteristics to the final product, and brewers carefully select their ingredients to achieve the desired taste profile.
In the case of Coors Light, the use of corn syrup as a sugar source is a deliberate choice made by the brewers. This decision is based on their desired flavor profile and the specific brewing process they employ. On the other hand, Bud Light proudly uses rice as its main sugar source, which gives it a distinct taste compared to beers brewed with corn syrup.
It is worth noting that the use of adjuncts like corn syrup or rice is not exclusive to these mainstream American lagers. Many craft breweries also experiment with different sugar sources to create unique and interesting flavors in their beers. As a brewer myself, I have used a variety of adjuncts, including corn syrup, in my own brewing experiments, and have found that they can contribute to a beer's complexity and character when used judiciously.
Coors Light does contain corn syrup as its main sugar source during brewing. However, the use of corn syrup, rice, or other adjuncts in beer production is a matter of personal preference and brewing style. The choice of sugar source can impact the flavor and characteristics of the beer, but ultimately, it is up to the individual consumer to decide what they enjoy in a beer.