Added sugars

Natural sugars, such as lactose in milk and fructose in fruit, usually come with fibre, vitamins and minerals. Added sugars appear on ingredient lists under many names, including sucrose, glucose, fructose, dextrose, maltose, golden syrup and maple syrup. The sugars line on the nutrition information panel includes both natural and added sugars, so check the ingredient list too. In March 2026, Food Standards Australia New Zealand decided not to proceed with a separate added sugars line on the panel.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines advise limiting added sugars. The World Health Organization recommends keeping sugars below 10% of daily energy, and below 5% for extra benefit. Too much added sugar can lead to weight gain, which is linked to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some cancers, and it causes tooth decay. Common sources include soft drinks, sports and energy drinks, cordial, iced tea and fruit juice. Choose water, eat whole fruit instead of juice and keep sweet treats for sometimes.