No Added Sugar
Definition
A labeling claim regulated by the FDA meaning that no sugar or sugar-containing ingredient (e.g., fruit juice concentrate, honey, corn syrup) was added during processing. It does NOT mean the product is sugar-free or low in sugar — it may still contain high levels of naturally occurring sugars.
Why It Matters
This is one of the most misleading label claims. A 'No Added Sugar' fruit juice can contain 30-40g of naturally occurring sugar per serving — as much as a can of Coca-Cola. The claim also doesn't restrict artificial sweeteners, so 'No Added Sugar' products frequently contain aspartame, sucralose, or stevia to compensate for the missing sweetness. Always check the Nutrition Facts panel for Total Sugars.
Commonly Found In
Related Terms
Artificial Sweeteners (Overview)
CautionA class of synthetic or semi-synthetic sugar substitutes that provide intense sweetness (100-20,000x sweeter than sugar) with zero or near-zero calories. Includes aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), and neotame.
High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
AvoidAn industrial sweetener made by enzymatically converting glucose in corn starch to fructose. Typically found as HFCS-55 (55% fructose, used in soft drinks) or HFCS-42 (42% fructose, used in processed foods).