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Top 10 foods high in sugar
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Sugar is a form of carbohydrates and is found in a variety of foods, including vegetables and fruits. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to type 2 diabetes and even cancer. Ilive presents a list of foods high in sugar that should be limited or eliminated.
Granulated sugar and other sweeteners
Pure granulated sugar is 99% sugar and therefore it is the number 1 enemy of our figure and health. Brown sugar contains 97% sugar, honey - 82%, and condensed milk - 54%.
Soft drinks and powdered drinks
Typically, powdered drinks, such as dry lemonade, can contain up to 94% sugar. Always check the label before purchasing such products. Half a liter of carbonated soft drinks can contain up to 40 grams of sugar, which is twice the amount of sugar found in a medium-sized banana.
Candies and nougat
Of all the "candy" sweets, nougat has the highest sugar content - 83%. Candied fruits also contain a lot of it - up to 81%. Chewing gums and lollipops contain about 63% sugar.
Dried fruits
We often use dried fruits to make compotes or simply add them to dishes with porridge. However, not many people know that the sugar content in them is quite high, namely, dried apples contain 81% sugar, pears - 62%, the amount of sugar in raisins is 59%, dried apricots - 53% and, finally, prunes have the least amount - only 38%.
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Cookies, cakes and pies
Sugar is a key ingredient in most sweets. Macaroons - an almond treat from France - contain 71% sugar, making them the leader in sugar content among sweets. Other types of cookies can contain up to 63% sugar. Cakes contain slightly less sugar, but only because they contain more flour, so the sugar content in them is 57%.
Jams and preserves
The amount of sugar in marmalade is 60%, in jams and preserves the sugar level reaches 49%, and peanut butter can contain up to 10% sugar.
Instant porridge and muesli
Such convenient and quick-to-brew porridges may contain a considerable amount of sugar – up to 56%. Muesli also contains no less – 55%. Due to the absence of fat, manufacturers often increase the amount of sugar.
Sauces, ketchups and sweet syrups
Sauces, salad dressings and chocolate syrups are often a source of hidden sugar. Chocolate syrup can contain 50% sugar, while salad dressing can contain 29%. Ketchup can contain up to 23% sugar.
Ice cream and milkshakes
Ice cream lovers should be careful with this product and not overindulge in the cold sweetness, because it can contain up to 26% sugar. The same can be said about milkshakes, in which the amount of sugar is 23%.
Canned fruits in syrup
Canned fruits, although tasty, can contain up to 22% sugar in the syrup they are in. Canned fruit juices carry a slightly lower load – up to 14% sugar.