August 26, 2026
Did you know sugar can sneak into your foods under different names? These hidden sugars can make it tricky to keep track of your intake. Here are ten common yet often overlooked words for sugar you might find on ingredient labels:
High Fructose Corn Syrup: A highly processed sweetener found in many sodas and snacks.
Sucrose: The scientific name for table sugar, often added to baked goods and candies.
Glucose: A simple sugar that’s a building block for more complex sugars, commonly added to processed foods.
Maltose: Often found in cereals, beers, and processed grains.
Dextrose: A form of glucose derived from starch, used in packaged foods.
Fructose: Naturally found in fruits, but also added to sweeten many processed foods.
Lactose: The sugar found in milk and dairy products, sometimes added to processed foods.
Molasses: A thick syrup byproduct of sugar refining, often used in baking.
Barley Malt: Used in brewing and some baked goods, it adds a sweet, malty flavor.
Agave Nectar: A sweetener derived from the agave plant, marketed as a natural alternative to sugar.
Understanding these terms can help you make healthier choices and avoid unnecessary added sugars. Stay savvy and check your labels! 🕵️♀️✨
