Added sugars are included within total sugars; they are not an extra amount to add again. FDA explains that total sugars includes naturally occurring sugars and any added sugars in the food. The label’s “includes” wording helps show that relationship. [1]
Read the two lines as a relationship
The total-sugars line and the added-sugars line describe related information. If an illustrative label lists twelve grams of total sugars and includes four grams of added sugars, the total is twelve grams, not sixteen. This example uses invented numbers to explain the label structure.
FDA describes added sugars as including sugars added during processing and certain packaged sweeteners. Naturally occurring sugars in foods such as milk and fruit are included in total sugars without automatically being classified as added sugars. Read the exact product information rather than guessing from the food’s name. [1]
Compare the same amount of similar foods
A small container and a large container can display different serving amounts. Check those amounts before comparing sugar figures. You may need to use the per-package column or calculate the amount you would ordinarily eat. FDA’s serving-size resource explains why a package can contain more than one serving. [2]
Use the comparison to answer one specific question, such as how two similar products differ in labeled added sugars. It does not rank every food or determine an entire diet. Other nutrients, ingredients, allergies, preferences, and care instructions still matter.
Avoid turning one number into a health verdict
A product with a lower added-sugars number may still differ in serving quantity, ingredients, cost, or the role it plays in a meal. Write down the practical reason for the comparison. If you want professional help, bring both labels and describe how you use the products.
A useful next step might be understanding the label rather than replacing the food. Keep the task proportionate and avoid a tracking routine that becomes distressing. If a medical condition changes what you need from nutrition guidance, seek individualized advice instead of following a general label example.
A quick label check
Use this sequence to prevent double counting and keep the comparison fair.
- Identify the serving amount for each product.
- Read total sugars first, then the included added-sugars amount.
- Do not add the two figures together.
- Compare the same quantity of similar foods.
- Consider the full label and the food’s place in your meal.
Common questions
Are added sugars separate from total sugars?
They are part of total sugars. The label indicates the included amount; do not count it twice. [1]
Do naturally occurring sugars always count as added sugars?
No. FDA distinguishes naturally occurring sugars in foods such as milk and fruit from added sugars. [1]
Can the label tell me how much sugar I personally should eat?
It supplies standardized product information. Your personal nutrition needs require individual context.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Practical examples and checklists are editorial planning suggestions. This article has not received independent clinical review. Read our standards and business disclosures.
Continue with a useful next step
Was this useful?
Share a fixed-choice response without entering health information.
Suggest a future topic
