Quick answer
Added sugars are already included in total sugars on the Nutrition Facts label. If a label says 12g total sugars and includes 8g added sugars, the product has 12g total sugars, not 20g.
Why it is used
Food makers may add sugars for sweetness, texture, browning, fermentation, moisture retention, or flavor balance.
Where you might see it
- Sweetened drinks
- Cereals
- Yogurts
- Snack bars
- Desserts
What to check on the label
- Do not add total sugars and added sugars together.
- Check serving size before comparing added sugars between products.
- Compare similar foods, such as two yogurts or two cereals, for the clearest context.
Sources and review
This entry is written for educational label context and reviewed against source-backed internal references.
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