World Health Organisation (WHO) have published guidelines on intakes of free sugars by adults and children due to increasing concern of the effect of high intakes of free sugars on overall energy intake, unhealthy weight gain and dental caries. Free sugars include monosaccharides and disaccharides added to foods and beverages by the manufacturer, cook or consumer, and sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates. WHO has recommended reducing the intake of free sugars to less than 10% of total energy and conditionally suggests a further reduction of the intake of free sugars to below 5% of total energy intake.

In the context of a balanced diet, clear advice to consumers and guidance to food manufacturers to achieve these recommendations will be key to address excessive free sugar intakes by adults and children.

Link: http://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/guidelines/sugars_intake/en/