total dietary sugars
Total dietary sugars comprises free sugars (including added sugars) plus those sugars naturally present in intact milk, fruits, and vegetables
In food safety and nutrition, the concept of total dietary sugars refers to all sugars present in the diet, regardless of where they come from. This includes sugars that occur naturally in foods such as fruit, vegetables, and milk, as well as sugars added during food processing, cooking, or at the table. It is broader than terms like “free sugars” or “added sugars,” because it counts every type of sugar consumed.
EFSA uses the concept of total dietary sugars to estimate how much sugar different population groups consume and to assess possible health risks linked to high intakes, such as dental caries, weight gain, and metabolic diseases. By analysing food consumption data across the EU, EFSA evaluates average and high sugar intakes in children and adults and compares them with scientific evidence on health effects. This work supports the development of dietary reference values, informs public health advice, and helps risk managers and policymakers shape measures to reduce excessive sugar consumption and protect consumer health.