Decoding Added Sugars on Nutrition Facts Labels
Students often struggle to distinguish between naturally occurring sugars and added sugars. To clarify this, provide the class with empty food packaging from various snacks and beverages. Ask them to locate the Nutrition Facts panel and find the subcategory for Added Sugars listed under Total Carbohydrates. Have students identify three different names for added sugar in the ingredient list, such as cane juice, high fructose corn syrup, or maltose. This activity moves beyond simply reading total grams by teaching students to recognize how manufacturers diversify sugar sources. By matching label data to the ingredient list, students gain a practical understanding of how to make informed choices about the foods they consume.
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