Low-sugar

Low sugar is a common phrase for baked goods and desserts with reduced sweetness, but it has no single official meaning. An FDA labeling chart notes that the claim low for sugars is not defined, so shoppers should read the Nutrition Facts panel.

Other sugar claims are defined. Under federal rules, sugar free means less than 0.5 gram of sugars per reference amount. Reduced sugar requires at least 25 percent less sugar than an appropriate reference food, with the reference food and the percentage difference stated near the claim. No added sugar means no sugars were added during processing or packaging, and the product cannot contain ingredients such as jam, jelly or concentrated fruit juice.

In baking, sugar also gives tenderness, browning and moisture, so cutting it changes texture and color. Recipes with less sugar often rely on spices, vanilla, fruit or extracts for flavor and may need adjusted baking times.