Some common names for added sugars to look out for in your food
What are some common names for added sugars to look out for?
When trying to reduce added sugar intake, it’s important to recognize that sugar can appear under many different names on ingredient labels. Here are some common names for added sugars to watch out for:
Common Names for Added Sugars
1. Sucrose: Often referred to as table sugar, it is a combination of glucose and fructose.
2. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): A widely used sweetener in processed foods and beverages, it contains varying levels of fructose and glucose.
3. Fructose: A simple sugar found in fruits, but also used as an added sweetener.
4. Glucose: Another simple sugar that is commonly added to foods and beverages.
5. Dextrose: A form of glucose derived from starch, often used in processed foods.
6. Maltose: A disaccharide made of two glucose molecules, typically found in malted foods and beverages.
7. Lactose: The sugar found in milk, but can also be added to dairy products.
8. Agave Nectar/Syrup: A sweetener derived from the agave plant, often marketed as a natural sugar alternative.
9. Honey: While natural, it is still a form of added sugar when used in processed foods.
10. Maple Syrup: Another natural sweetener that counts as added sugar when included in products.
11. Molasses: A thick syrup made during sugar extraction, often used in baking and cooking.
12. Cane Sugar: Sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, often found in various food products.
13. Brown Sugar: A type of sugar that contains molasses, giving it a distinct flavor and color.
14. Corn Syrup: A sweetener made from corn starch, commonly used in processed foods.
15. Fruit Juice Concentrate: A concentrated form of fruit juice that is often used as a sweetener in products.
16. Evaporated Cane Juice: A less refined sugar product that is often marketed as a healthier alternative.
17. Sorghum Syrup: A sweet syrup made from sorghum cane, used in various recipes.
18. Demerara Sugar: A type of raw sugar with large golden crystals, often used in baking.
19. Turbinado Sugar: A minimally processed sugar that retains some molasses, giving it a light brown color.
20. Coconut Sugar: Made from the sap of coconut trees, it is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular sugar.
Conclusion
Being aware of these various names for added sugars can help you make more informed choices when reading food labels. Many processed foods, even those marketed as “healthy,” can contain significant amounts of added sugars under these aliases. By recognizing these terms, you can better manage your sugar intake and make healthier dietary choices.
