Sugar content in yogurts: What information is provided to consumers on the label?

Abstract

This study focused on the observational and descriptive analysis of yogurt products available in major supermarket chains across Uruguay. A database of 120 yogurts was established using the FLIP-LAC program, facilitating the collection, storage, and analysis of packaging information. The findings revealed a diverse range of yogurts based on fat content, with 18% being whole, 49% low-fat, and 33% non-fat. Significantly, 97% of the yogurts contained sugar or alternative sweeteners, aligning with global trends and highlighting the prevalent use of sweetening agents in dairy products. The study underscored the challenges in assessing sugar intake due to the non-mandatory declaration of sugar content in nutritional labeling. Notably, 3% of yogurts did not contain any sweeteners or sugar. Additionally, 10% of the yogurts displayed an excess sugar warning octagon, indicating sugar content exceeding 26 g per serving. The study emphasized the need for enhanced nutritional education and public policies to empower consumers in making informed dietary choices. Despite regulatory efforts, the absence of mandatory sugar declarations on nutritional labels hinders consumers from tracking and managing their sugar intake effectively. The dataset revealed significant differences in sugar content-based categories on fat content, highlighting potential avenues for industry improvement in producing healthier yogurt options.