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Here, a series of cellular-structured and predominantly mesoporous carbons were prepared via carbonization of glucose–fructose syrup (GFS) with sulfuric acid and subsequent calcination between 400${}^{\circ }$C and 700${}^{\circ }$C. Comparative results on the microstructure, chemical and textural properties of the newly produced carbons are presented. Furthermore, their adsorption performance for removal of acetaminophen from water was tested and it was found that the carbon calcined at 700${}^{\circ }$C has a maximum adsorption capacity (98.7mg$\cdot$g${}^{-1}$) among all samples due to its suitable textural properties (BET surface area of 418m${}^2\cdot$g${}^{-1}$ and total pore volume of 0.2cm${}^3\cdot$g${}^{-1}$). This study demonstrates the potential use of GFS as a precursor in the preparation of carbonaceous materials for removal of biologically-active micropollutants from water.