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The Truth about Hidden Sugars: A Risk for Health
Product Comparison: Choose a Better Option

Course Author(s): Diane Vernetti-Callahan, RDH, MS Ed

Product Comparison: Choose a Better Option

Reading food labels can be a daunting task while grocery shopping. Here are a few shortcuts that can help you choose the best options.

  • Find the “plain” version of foods; yogurt, oatmeal, and crackers. Stay clear of foods with the label advertising “low-fat, low-calorie, fat-free.” They typically have more added or artificial sugars.
  • Food labels using the terms “natural or organic” does not mean a food has less added sugar.5
  • Scan the ingredient list for “code words” for sugars; anything ending in “ose.” They are listed according to weight.
  • Check the “added sugars” line and the percentage Daily Value. 4 grams=1 teaspoon of sugar.1
  • Compare pre-packaged, convenient type foods for the best option; even the same manufactured product in a different flavor may vary in sugar content. Below are a few examples of product comparisons.
Higher Sugar
Image showing yougurt variety with higher sugar content.
17 grams of sugar
Lower Sugar
Image showing yougurt variety with lower sugar content.
4 grams of sugar
Higher Sugar
Image showing packaged meal variety with higher sugar content.
31 grams of sugar
Lower Sugar
Image showing packaged meal variety with lower sugar content.
14 grams of sugar
Higher Sugar
Image showing cereal variety with higher sugar content.
9 grams of sugar
Lower Sugar
Image showing cereal variety with lower sugar content.
1 gram of sugar
Higher Sugar
Image showing soup variety with higher sugar content.
16 grams of sugar
Lower Sugar
Image showing soup variety with lower sugar content.
10 grams of sugar
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