Ingredient
Sugar (second ingredient)
What is Sugar (second ingredient)?
Sugar, commonly referred to as sucrose, is a natural carbohydrate found in many fruits and plants. It is typically processed from sugar cane or sugar beet through extraction, purification, and crystallization.
Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to enhance the flavor of food and beverages. It also contributes to the texture and acts as a preservative in some cases. While sugar is a source of energy, excessive consumption has been linked to various health issues, including obesity and dental cavities.
When you see sugar high on an ingredient list, it indicates that the product contains a significant amount of it, which might be a concern for those monitoring their sugar intake.
Commonly found in: cereals, baked goods, beverages, candies, sauces, condiments
What to watch
- High sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of obesity.
- Excessive consumption can lead to dental cavities.
- Dietary sugar has been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA but should be consumed in moderation.
Research shows that while sugar provides energy, overconsumption can lead to health issues like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Sugar itself is plant-derived but can sometimes be processed with bone char, making it non-vegan; vegans often seek alternatives labeled as vegan-friendly.
Sugar is high in carbohydrates and not suitable for a ketogenic diet, which requires low carb intake.
High sugar intake can contribute to gut dysbiosis, affecting overall digestive health.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS): A Food Additive Database · Dietary Sugar and Body Weight: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses of Randomized Controlled Trials and Cohort Studies
Scout's take
Heavy added-sugar load — sugar is the second ingredient by weight, making this cereal essentially sugar-coated refined corn.
More from Scout's analyses
Heavy added-sugar load drives blood sugar spikes and contributes to metabolic disease.
from the analysis of Kellogg's Froot LoopsFound in 2 products
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