Ingredient · Updated
Sugar
Found in 239 productsSee all
Organic Jaguar Matcha Green Tea Facial Scrub 
Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Company Macadamia Nuts 
Better With Almonds Honey & Sea Salt 
Cleveland Kimchi Classic Kimchi with Garlic Greens and Spicy Red Pepper 
Milky Way Chocolate Stars Cereal 
Millville Frosted Shredded Bite Size Wheat Original 
Sun Vista Pinto Beans 
Aidells Chicken & Andouille Smoked Sausage What is Sugar?
Sugar, often referred to as sucrose, is a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in many plants, especially sugarcane and sugar beets. It is extracted and refined to produce the white, granulated sweetener commonly used in homes and industries.
Sugar is widely used for its sweetening properties, enhancing the flavor of foods and beverages. It also plays roles in preservation, fermentation, and as a bulking agent. Health evidence shows that while sugar can provide quick energy, excessive consumption is linked to health concerns such as obesity and tooth decay.
When you see sugar on a label, it's important to consider the overall sugar content of your diet. Many processed foods contain significant amounts of added sugars, which can contribute to daily intake quickly.
Commonly found in: candies, beverages, baked goods, sauces, processed snacks
What to watch
- Excessive consumption is linked to obesity and metabolic disorders.
- High sugar intake can lead to tooth decay.
- Dietary sugar may contribute to cardiovascular disease when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
- Provides a quick source of energy.
- Acts as a preservative in jams and jellies.
Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA but its consumption should be moderated.
Research shows mixed results; while essential for quick energy, excessive intake is linked to health issues.
While sugar itself is plant-derived, some refining processes use animal bone char, which can concern some vegans.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS) · Sugar intake and metabolic health
Scout's take
Refined sugar is associated with various health issues such as obesity and diabetes. It is a highly processed ingredient that provides empty calories without nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to metabolic disorders.
The case against
High intake of refined sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail Mix · echoed in 11 other analysesHigh intake of refined sugar can increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
from the analysis of Mae Ploy SWEET CHILLI SAUCE · echoed in 10 other analysesExcessive consumption can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.
from the analysis of Protein pint Peanut butter chip · echoed in 9 other analysesExcessive consumption can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.
from the analysis of Gatorade Gatorlyte Glacier Freeze Sports Drink - Bottle · echoed in 8 other analysesExcessive consumption can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased risk of chronic diseases.
from the analysis of Good & Gather Milk Chocolate Morsels · echoed in 5 other analysesThe case for
Provides a quick source of energy but lacks essential nutrients.
from the analysis of Mission, SUPER SOFT, FLOUR TORTILLAS · echoed in 8 other analysesProvides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Thomas Bagels Everything · echoed in 4 other analysesProvides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation.
from the analysis of GHOST Protein Cereal Lucky Charms Flavored · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides energy and aids in the fermentation process, enhancing the texture and flavor of bread.
from the analysis of Artesano Bakery BreadProvides quick energy but should be limited in a balanced diet.
from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Honey NutMore from Scout's analyses
Second sweetener on top of dextrose.
from the analysis of Nerds StrawberryRefined added sugar.
from the analysis of Organic Jaguar Matcha Green Tea Facial ScrubRefined sugar is a source of empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional value. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.
from the analysis of Sun Chips Garden Salsa 100% Whole Grain Snacks Plastic BagAll 239 products with Sugar
+ 215 more products in the Scout app
Where Sugar shows up
Higher-scoring picks without Sugar
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Sugar, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.