Sugars (Sugars RI: 90g)
Sugars, together with starches, are the two main types of carbohydrates and the main sources of energy in the UK diet.
Sugars include sugars naturally found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, milk
products as well as sucrose (table sugar) and glucose (found in soft drinks).
Sugars include sugars naturally found in foods such as fruits, vegetables,
milk
products as well as those added to foods, e.g. sucrose and glucose. Sugars are
present in foods for other reasons than a sweet taste, including for texture,
structure and bulk and changing the consistency of foods. The exact role and
function varies depending on individual products.
While neither starch nor sugars have been found to have any special role in the
development of serious diseases such as diabetes it is still important to
monitor intakes as if consumed in excess of energy requirements, sugars can
contribute
to obesity and can also cause tooth decay.
The Reference Intake for total sugars is 90 grams. Labelling 'added sugars' is not allowed under EU law.