Here are various names for sugar, and checking food labels for these terms can help you identify added sugars in products. Here are some common names for sugar and tips on how to check for them on food labels:
Common Names for Sugar:
Sucrose: A natural sugar found in many plants, commonly extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets.
Glucose: A simple sugar that is a primary source of energy for our bodies.
Fructose: Another natural sugar found in fruits and honey.
Lactose: The sugar naturally present in milk and dairy products.
Maltose: A sugar formed from the breakdown of starch, often found in malted foods.
High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): A sweetener made from corn starch, commonly used in processed foods and beverages.
Honey: A natural sweetener produced by bees.
Agave Nectar: A sweetener derived from the agave plant.
Maple Syrup: A syrup made from the sap of maple trees.
Molasses: A dark, thick syrup obtained during the refining of sugar.
How to Check for Sugar on Food Labels