Understanding Added Sugar: Where It Hides and How to Spot It

Sugars appear naturally in fruit and milk, but many packaged foods also contain added sugars. That is the type most health guidelines suggest limiting.

Where it hides

Sweetened drinks, flavored yogurt, breakfast cereal, sauces, granola bars and baked goods often contain more added sugar than people expect.

How to spot it

The nutrition label lists Added Sugars on its own line. In the ingredient list, sugar can go by many names, including cane sugar, corn syrup, honey, agave and fruit juice concentrate. If several of these appear, the product likely has a lot of added sugar.

Simple swaps

• Choose plain yogurt and add fruit
• Pick unsweetened drinks or dilute juice with water
• Look for cereals with lower added sugar per serving
• Make sauces and dressings at home when you can

You do not need to give up sweets entirely. Knowing where sugar hides makes it easier to enjoy it on purpose.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. See our Disclaimer.