Quick answer
Total sugars are broader than added sugars. Added sugars are included within total sugars, so you should not add the two numbers together.
Why it is used
The Nutrition Facts label separates total sugars and added sugars so shoppers can see both the full sugar amount and how much was added during processing or preparation.
Where you might see it
- Yogurts
- Cereals
- Fruit products
- Sweetened drinks
- Snack bars
What to check on the label
- Do not add total sugars and added sugars together.
- Look at ingredients to understand where sugars may be coming from.
- Compare similar products by serving size and added sugars.
Sources and review
This entry is written for educational label context and reviewed against source-backed internal references.
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