How much sugar does flavoured milk contain?

How much sugar is in flavored milk?

Typical figures for chocolate milk are around 22 to 28 grams of total sugar per 1-cup (240 ml) serving, compared with about 12 grams in plain milk. Some of that is lactose, the sugar naturally present in milk; the rest is added sugar. Estimates for added sugar in a cup of chocolate milk run from roughly 11 to 17 grams depending on the brand. These are typical values, not exact: the figure on your carton is the one to trust.

What is the difference between natural and added sugar in milk?

The US FDA explains that total sugars include sugars naturally in foods such as milk and fruit plus any added sugars, and that added sugars do not include the naturally occurring sugars in milk. So the lactose in milk counts toward total sugars only. The added sugars line on the label shows the sweetener put in by the maker. The FDA Daily Value for added sugars is 50 grams per day on a 2,000-calorie diet, so one cup of flavored milk can use up a good share of that.

How do flavored milks compare?

How can you cut the sugar?

• Choose a product labeled reduced sugar or no added sugar and compare the added sugars line.
• Mix half plain milk and half flavored milk.
• Stir your own cocoa into plain milk and add only as much sugar as you want.
• Use a smaller glass or carton; check the serving size, because many cartons hold more than one cup.

Is flavored milk still a source of nutrients?

It contains the same milk nutrients, such as protein and calcium, as plain milk, but the added sugar is the trade-off. If someone in your family drinks it daily, comparing labels is a simple way to keep an eye on it. For dietary advice about a child or health condition, ask a doctor or dietitian.