Digital PSAT Reading and Writing Practice Question 32: Answer and Explanation

Question: 32

It is important to acknowledge that research has identified several serious health risks associated with the chronic overconsumption of sugar, and perhaps of fructose in particular. These risks, however, are by no means limited to foodstuffs containing high fructose corn syrup. Depending on the formula, corn syrup contains between 42 percent and 55 percent fructose by volume. For comparison, cane sugar, honey, and agave nectar-three popular sweeteners touted as natural, and therefore, more healthful-contain 50 percent, 52 percent, and 85 percent fructose, respectively. Thus, whereas it is true that fructose should be consumed only in moderation, the singling out of products that contain high fructose corn syrup is not merely insufficient action to curb the fructose-associated obesity epidemic in our country, it's also patently misleading to consumers.

Which choice best states the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?

• A. Demonstrate that corn syrup is especially harmful to consumers
• B. Show that corn syrup is undeservingly singled-out for criticism
• C. Argue that fructose is but one reason that corn syrup is maligned
• D. Illustrate that many foodstuffs contain great quantities of sugar

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) The text states that the health risks are misdirected at corn syrup; realistically, they are associated with fructose, which is prevalent in "cane sugar, honey, and agave nectar" as well. So, (B) is correct. Corn syrup has comparable or even lesser amounts of fructose than the author's other examples, so (A) is not supported. (C) misunderstands the argument-fructose, not corn syrup, is problematic. (D), although true, does not address the fact that the high amounts of fructose in other foodstuffs contradict the case against corn syrup.