Hidden Sugar in Savory Foods

Sugar lurks in processed foods you wouldn't expect to be sweet.

What the evidence says

  • Sauces are serial offenders: BBQ, plum, honey garlic, hoisin, sweet and sour contain large amounts of sugar[1]
  • Spaghetti sauce may contain 10-15 grams of sugar per serving (3-4 teaspoons), as surveyed in 2016[1]
  • Ketchup and condiments often contain substantial added sugar[1]
  • Sugar provides almost magical flavor-enhancing properties at virtually no cost[1]
  • Sugar counters tartness and may not be immediately evident to taste buds[1]
  • Names for hidden sugars include: sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose, dextrose, molasses, HFCS, and many syrups[1]
  • If it comes in a package, it probably contains added sugar[1]