Product Comparison: Choose a Better Option

Reading food labels can be a daunting task while grocery shopping. Here are a few shortcuts that can help you choose the best options.

• Find the “plain” version of foods; yogurt, oatmeal, and crackers. Stay clear of foods with the label advertising “low-fat, low-calorie, fat-free.” They typically have more added or artificial sugars.

• Food labels using the terms “natural or organic” does not mean a food has less added sugar.⁵

• Scan the ingredient list for “code words” for sugars; anything ending in “ose.” They are listed according to weight.

• Check the “added sugars” line and the percentage Daily Value. 4 grams=1 teaspoon of sugar.¹

• Compare pre-packaged, convenient type foods for the best option; even the same manufactured product in a different flavor may vary in sugar content. Below are a few examples of product comparisons.

Higher Sugar

Higher Sugar

17 grams of sugar

Lower Sugar

Lower Sugar

4 grams of sugar

Higher Sugar

Higher Sugar

31 grams of sugar

Lower Sugar

Lower Sugar

14 grams of sugar

Higher Sugar

Higher Sugar

9 grams of sugar

Lower Sugar

Lower Sugar

1 gram of sugar

Higher Sugar

Higher Sugar

16 grams of sugar

Lower Sugar

Lower Sugar

10 grams of sugar