Total Sugars And Added Sugars

Total Sugars refers to all sugars present in a food, including those naturally found in ingredients like fruit or milk, and those added during processing. Added Sugars are caloric sweeteners (like sugars, syrups, and fruit juice concentrates) that are put into foods and drinks during their preparation or at the table. These sugars are typically derived from plants such as sugarcane, sugar beets, corn, or fruit.

Sugars are primarily used as sweeteners to enhance the taste of foods and beverages. They also play roles in food preservation, contribute to texture, and aid in browning during cooking and baking. They are commonly found in a wide variety of products, including candies, baked goods, sugary drinks, and many processed foods.

The FDA requires 'Total Sugars' and 'Added Sugars' to be listed on the Nutrition Facts label to help consumers make informed choices. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and advise limiting added sugars to at most 10 grams per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that intake of free sugars should be less than 10% of total energy intake. Excessive consumption of added sugars is a public health concern and is associated with various health issues.