Subsequent time you attain for a product labelled ‘sugar-free’ or ‘no added sugar,’ don’t assume they imply the identical factor. Whereas each phrases recommend decrease sugar content material, they’ve distinct meanings that may influence your food regimen selections.
Misunderstanding these labels might result in unintended sugar consumption, particularly for these managing diabetes or watching their sugar consumption. To clear up the confusion, indianexpress.com spoke to an skilled about the important thing variations, how these labels have an effect on well being, and what customers ought to be careful for when purchasing.
Key regulatory variations between ‘sugar-free’ and ‘no added sugar’ merchandise
Kanikka Malhotra, guide dietician and licensed diabetes educator tells indianexpress.com, “The phrases ‘sugar-free’ and ‘no added sugar’ are regulated otherwise throughout the globe. A product labeled as ‘sugar-free’ typically signifies that it comprises a negligible quantity of sugar, usually lower than 0.5 grams per serving, as set by regulatory companies. Which means that no added sugars or synthetic sweeteners are included, though naturally occurring sugars should still be current. ‘No added sugar,’ however, signifies that no sugars or sweeteners have been added throughout the manufacturing course of. Nonetheless, the product should still comprise naturally occurring sugars from substances like fruits or dairy. For instance, within the European Union, there are clear definitions for these claims, however in Australia, there aren’t particular provisions for sugar-free claims within the Meals Customary Code. Within the U.S., the FDA enforces guidelines for ‘no added sugar’ labelling.”
Shoppers can establish hidden sugars in ‘no added sugar’ merchandise by fastidiously inspecting the Diet Info panel. (Supply: Freepik)
Exploring the potential well being dangers of sugar alcohols and synthetic sweeteners in ‘sugar-free’ merchandise
Sugar alcohols (polyols) and synthetic sweeteners are sometimes utilized in ‘sugar-free’ merchandise as sugar options. “Polyols, like erythritol, present sweetness with fewer energy and will scale back the danger of dental points. Nonetheless, frequent consumption of erythritol might improve the danger of coronary heart assault or stroke. Equally, long-term use of synthetic sweeteners might not assist management weight and will doubtlessly improve the danger of coronary heart illness and sort 2 diabetes. Whereas regulatory our bodies just like the FDA have accredited sure synthetic sweeteners, considerations persist relating to their potential metabolic results and total influence on well being,” explains Malhotra.
Figuring out hidden sugars in ‘no added sugar’ merchandise and make knowledgeable selections
Malhotra suggests, “Shoppers can establish hidden sugars in ‘no added sugar’ merchandise by fastidiously inspecting the Diet Info panel. Whereas the label signifies that no extra sugars have been added throughout processing, it’s important to verify the ‘Complete Sugars’ part to account for naturally occurring sugars. Substances like fruit juice concentrates, cane juice, corn syrup, and different unrecognised sugars can contribute to the general sugar content material.”
Consciousness of those hidden sources allows people to make knowledgeable dietary selections, particularly for these managing circumstances like diabetes. Selecting unsweetened options and prioritising entire, unprocessed meals can additional assist scale back total sugar consumption and promote higher well being.