A Nutrition Guide: Understanding How much sugar is in ready-made custard?

Ready-made custard often contains a surprisingly high amount of sugar, with some popular brands having over 10 grams per 100g serving. Understanding how much sugar is in ready-made custard? is key for anyone watching their sugar intake or making healthier dietary choices. This guide breaks down the nutritional facts and helps you make an informed decision.

Quick Summary

An analysis of ready-made custard brands reveals significant differences in sugar content, typically ranging from 10 to 12 grams per 100g. Learn how to compare options using nutrition labels and discover practical strategies for reducing sugar intake, including exploring lower-sugar varieties and homemade recipes.

Key Points

• Check Labels for Sugar Content: Ready-made custards typically contain 10-12g of sugar per 100g, so reading the nutrition label is essential for managing your sugar intake.

• Homemade Offers Control: Making your own custard from scratch with natural sweeteners or reduced sugar is the best way to control the overall sweetness and nutritional value.

• Sugar Comes in Many Forms: The ingredients list may contain various types of sugar like glucose syrup and fructose, not just 'sugar,' so look for these indicators of high sugar content.

• Consider Healthier Pairings: Combining custard with fresh fruit, like berries or bananas, naturally enhances flavour while adding vitamins and fibre, reducing the need for high-sugar versions.

• Explore Lighter Options: Many brands offer 'lighter' or 'low-sugar' variants, which are a better choice for those monitoring their diet, but always confirm sugar content on the label.

• Mind Daily Intake Recommendations: A single serving of ready-made custard can consume a large portion of the recommended daily limit for added sugars, so moderation is key.

Deciphering the Sweetness: How Much Sugar is in Your Ready-Made Custard?

Ready-made custard is a convenient and comforting dessert, but its nutritional profile, particularly its sugar content, can vary significantly between brands. For many consumers, the convenience of a ready-to-serve product comes with a hidden cost of added sugars. Examining the labels of several major brands provides clarity on what you're consuming with each spoonful. This information is crucial for those managing their sugar intake, whether for weight management, diabetes, or general health.

Comparing Major Ready-Made Custard Brands

To illustrate the typical sugar levels, let's look at the nutrition information for some popular UK brands. Sugar content is usually listed on the packaging per 100g, which makes comparing different products straightforward. The figures below are based on information found on company and retail websites:

• Ambrosia Devon Custard: A popular option, Ambrosia's ready-to-serve custard contains approximately 10.6g of sugar per 100g. A 125g portion would therefore contain around 13.3g of sugar.
• Tesco Ready To Serve Custard: Depending on the specific product, Tesco's own-brand custard can have around 11.5g of sugar per 100g. A typical 125g serving would contain 14.4g of sugar.
• Sainsbury's Ready To Eat Custard: This option contains about 10.7g of sugar per 100g. A 125g serving provides 13.4g of sugar. Sainsbury's also offers a 'lighter' version with a lower sugar content of 11.8g per 100g, demonstrating that some brands are making efforts to reduce sugar in specific lines.
• Bird's Ready To Serve Custard: This ready-to-serve version lists 11.4g of sugars per 100g.

These figures demonstrate that most standard ready-made custards fall into a similar range of 10-12g of sugar per 100g. For reference, the World Health Organization recommends that free sugars should be less than 10% of total energy intake, and ideally under 5% for additional health benefits. For an average adult on a 2000 calorie diet, 5% is about 25 grams of sugar per day. A single 125g serving of ready-made custard could easily consume half of this recommended daily limit.

Decoding Nutrition Labels: More Than Just the Numbers

Understanding how to read a nutrition label is a valuable skill for managing your diet. For sugar, pay attention to the following:

• Look at the 'Per 100g' Column: This provides a standardized comparison, making it easy to see which product is a healthier choice regardless of the serving size suggested by the manufacturer.
• Read the Ingredients List: Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so if sugar or another form of sugar (like glucose syrup, fructose, or dextrose) is high up on the list, the product is high in sugar.
• Check for 'Added Sugars': In some regions, labels separate 'Total Sugars' from 'Added Sugars', giving a clearer picture of how much sugar has been included during processing. An FDA resource explains this distinction.

Health Implications of High Sugar Consumption

Regularly consuming high-sugar foods like ready-made custards can contribute to several health issues. Excessive sugar intake is linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It can also lead to energy crashes, mood fluctuations, and even cognitive decline. Moderation is key, but for those seeking to reduce their overall sugar intake, choosing lower-sugar alternatives is a more effective strategy.

Comparing Ready-Made Custard Sugar Content (Per 100g)

Brand	Sugar (g) per 100g	Calories (kcal) per 100g	Fat (g) per 100g
Ambrosia Devon Custard	10.6	96	2.9
Tesco Ready To Serve Custard	11.5	98-99	2.9
Sainsbury's Ready To Eat Custard	10.7	105	3.0
Sainsbury's Lighter Custard	11.8	90	1.5
Bird's Ready To Serve Custard	11.4	100	2.9

Healthier Alternatives and Tips for Enjoying Custard Guilt-Free

If you're a custard lover, don't despair. There are plenty of ways to enjoy this dessert without the excessive sugar content.

• Choose Lower-Sugar Options: Look for brands that specifically market a 'low sugar' or 'lighter' version. Always check the nutrition label to confirm the actual sugar content.
• Make Your Own Custard: The best way to control the sugar is to make it from scratch. You can substitute traditional sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, or reduce the sugar quantity altogether.
• Naturally Sweeten Homemade Custard: For a sugar-free, baby-friendly option, consider thickening milk with cornflour and sweetening with fruit purées, such as banana or mango.
• Enhance Flavour Naturally: Instead of relying on sugar for flavour, add warm spices like cinnamon, vanilla bean paste, or nutmeg. This provides a rich, comforting taste without the extra sweetness.
• Use Healthy Pairings: Serve a smaller portion of custard with fresh fruits like berries or mango, which add natural sweetness, vitamins, and fibre.
• Mix with Greek Yogurt: Combine custard with plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for a protein boost and a tangy flavour that balances the custard's sweetness.
• Explore Plant-Based Milk Options: For those with dairy concerns or a desire to lower fat content, using unsweetened almond or soy milk can create a lighter custard.

Conclusion: The Sweet Spot is in the Details

The amount of sugar in ready-made custard is significant and often hidden behind the convenience of a ready-to-eat product. By proactively checking nutrition labels and being aware of the figures, consumers can make more informed choices. While an occasional bowl of standard ready-made custard is fine for most, those seeking a healthier, lower-sugar option have several alternatives. From choosing 'lighter' branded versions to embracing homemade recipes with natural sweeteners and fruits, it is possible to enjoy a delicious, creamy dessert without a massive sugar overload. The real control over your diet, and your dessert, lies in knowing the details.

Key Takeaways

• High Sugar Content: A typical 100g serving of popular ready-made custard contains 10-12 grams of sugar, which can contribute significantly to daily sugar intake.
• Read the Labels Carefully: Always compare the 'per 100g' sugar figures on different brands to find the healthiest option, as serving sizes can be misleading.
• Beware of Hidden Sugars: The ingredients list reveals sugar under various names, including glucose syrup, fructose, and dextrose.
• Homemade is Healthiest: Making custard from scratch allows for complete control over the type and quantity of sweetener, including the use of natural or artificial sugar substitutes.
• Pair with Fruit: Complementing a smaller portion of custard with fresh fruit adds natural sweetness, fibre, and vitamins while reducing overall sugar consumption.
• Look for Lighter Versions: Some manufacturers offer lower-fat or lighter custard options, which often have a reduced sugar content.

FAQs

Q: What are the main ingredients that contribute to the sugar content in ready-made custard? A: The main ingredients contributing to the sugar content are typically sugar itself, often listed high on the ingredients list, and sometimes glucose or corn syrups added for flavour and texture.

Q: Is homemade custard always lower in sugar than ready-made? A: No, it depends on the recipe. However, making custard from scratch gives you full control over how much sugar you add, and you can substitute it with natural or low-calorie sweeteners.

Q: What is a healthy alternative to ready-made custard? A: Healthier alternatives include low-sugar or homemade custards, mixing custard with plain Greek yogurt, or serving it with naturally sweet fruits like berries or mashed banana.

Q: Can people with diabetes eat ready-made custard? A: It depends on the sugar content and an individual's diet plan. Ready-made custards are often high in sugar and may not be suitable. Opting for sugar-free versions or consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

Q: How can I identify a product that is 'low sugar'? A: Check the nutrition label for the 'Sugars' content per 100g. A product might be labelled 'low sugar' if it has less than 5% of the Daily Value for added sugars, according to some guidelines.

Q: Does custard powder have sugar? A: Yes, most custard powders contain sugar and flavourings, though the specific amount depends on the brand. The total sugar in the final product also depends on how much sugar you add during preparation.

Q: Are there natural sweeteners I can use for homemade custard? A: Yes, natural sweeteners like honey, blended dates, or stevia can be used to sweeten homemade custard instead of processed sugar.

Citations

• Low-Carb Sugar-Free Custard Sauce Recipe - Verywell Fit. (2022, January 28). Verywell Fit. https://www.verywellfit.com/sugar-free-custard-sauce-2241901
• Is It Healthy to Eat Dessert Every Day? (2021, October 18). Baton Rouge Clinic. https://batonrougeclinic.com/news-education/is-it-healthy-to-eat-dessert-every-day/
• Interesting Ways in Which Custard Can Benefit Your Health. (2025, January 10). Goodwoods British Market. https://goodwoods.com/blogs/news/interesting-ways-in-which-custard-can-benefit-your-health
• Birds Ready to Serve Custard 750ml - BR Foods. BR Foods. https://www.brfoods.gr/shop/brfoods/birds-ready-to-serve-custard-750ml
• Ambrosia Devon Custard 1kg. Ambrosia.co.uk. https://www.ambrosia.co.uk/products/ambrosia-devon-custard-1kg/
• Tesco Ready To Serve Custard 1Kg. Tesco.ie. https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/en-IE/products/256525603
• Sainsbury's Ready To Eat Custard 500g. Sainsburys.co.uk. https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/product/sainsburys-ready-to-eat-custard-500g
• Understanding food labels - Diabetes Ireland. Diabetes.ie. https://www.diabetes.ie/living-with-diabetes/living-with-type-2/food-diabetes/understanding-food-labels/
• Added Sugars on the Nutrition Facts Label - FDA. (2024, March 5). FDA.gov. https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/added-sugars-nutrition-facts-label
• Dangers of consuming too much sugar. Avera Health. https://www.avera.org/health-talk/2022/dangers-of-consuming-too-much-sugar
• Best Ways to Enjoy Custard Without Added Sugar. (2025, August 19). Checkers.ng. https://checkers.ng/custard-without-added-sugar/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average sugar content in ready-made custard?

The average sugar content for a standard ready-made custard is around 10 to 12 grams per 100g. However, this can vary by brand and product line.

Are all ready-made custards high in sugar?

Not all are. While standard versions tend to be high, some brands offer 'lighter' or lower-sugar alternatives specifically for health-conscious consumers. Always check the nutrition label for the specific product.

How can I reduce the sugar in my custard dessert?

You can reduce sugar by making your own custard and controlling the sweetener, using sugar-free or natural sweetener alternatives, or simply by serving a smaller portion with fresh fruit to add natural sweetness.

How do I read a nutrition label to check for sugar?

Look at the 'Sugars' row in the nutrition information panel, paying close attention to the value 'per 100g' for an accurate comparison. Also, check the ingredients list for added sugars like corn syrup or dextrose.

Is homemade custard healthier than ready-made?

Homemade custard is generally healthier because you have complete control over the ingredients, especially the amount and type of sweetener used. You can also opt for healthier milk alternatives.

What are the health risks of eating too much sugar?

Excessive sugar consumption can increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and can lead to energy crashes and other health issues.

What can I pair with custard to make it a more balanced dessert?

Pairing custard with fresh berries, bananas, or a mix of unsweetened nuts and seeds can add fibre, vitamins, and natural sweetness, creating a more balanced and nutritious dessert.