Not all Jordans granola is created equal
Jordans has a varied product portfolio, with options designed to cater to different consumer needs. The company clearly labels products that do not contain added sugar, such as their 'No Added Sugar' granolas. However, other products, including some of their traditional and fruit-filled granolas, do contain added sweeteners like honey or plain sugar. This distinction makes it essential for health-conscious shoppers to move beyond brand recognition and focus on the specific product packaging.
The crucial difference: 'No Added Sugar' vs. 'Low Sugar'
It is important to understand the terminology used on packaging. A 'No Added Sugar' product, like the Jordans Triple Nut variant, does not have any sugars or artificial sweeteners added during processing, but it will still contain naturally occurring sugars from ingredients like dried fruit. A 'Low Sugar' product, such as the Almond & Hazelnut granola, is specifically formulated to contain less than 5% total sugar per 100g. Consumers seeking the lowest possible sugar intake should look for 'No Added Sugar' labels or check the nutritional information for the lowest 'Sugars' value.
How to decode the label for added sugar
Identifying added sugar on a product label is a key skill for a healthy lifestyle. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Read the ingredients list: Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. If 'sugar,' 'honey,' 'syrup,' or anything ending in '-ose' (like fructose) appears near the beginning, the product contains a significant amount of added sugar.
- Check the nutritional panel: The nutritional facts panel in some regions, like the US, has a separate line for 'Added Sugars' underneath 'Total Sugars'. For other regions, a comparison is necessary. For example, if a product with dried fruit has very high sugar content, it's likely due to added sugar.
- Be aware of alternative names: Sugar has many aliases. Common names include cane sugar, beet sugar, honey, corn syrup, molasses, agave, and various fruit juice concentrates.
- Evaluate the health claims: Don't be fooled by front-of-pack claims like 'natural.' Always confirm by reviewing the ingredients and nutritional information. 'Natural flavouring' does not necessarily mean no added sugar.
A side-by-side comparison of Jordans granolas
Let's compare some popular Jordans granola products to highlight the difference in sugar content.
| Product Name | Added Sugar? | Sweeteners/Other Sugar Sources | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Added Sugar Triple Nut | No | Naturally occurring sugars from dried fruit (sultanas) | High in fibre; contains nuts |
| Simply Granola Crunchy Oat & Honey | Yes | Sugar, Honey | Uses honey for flavour and crunch |
| Country Crisp Chunky Nuts | Yes | Sugar | Classic crunchy recipe with a blend of nuts |
| Crunchy Oat Granola Tropical Fruits | Yes | Sugar, Honey, Cane Sugar (in fruit) | A mix of dried tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple |
| Low Sugar Granola Almond & Hazelnut | Yes | Not explicitly mentioned, but total sugar is <5% | Contains barley flakes and chicory root fibre to aid lower sugar content |
The impact of added sugar in granola
While granola can be part of a healthy diet, excessive intake of added sugar can have adverse health effects. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily added sugar intake to help prevent health issues such as weight gain, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Choosing a no added sugar granola is a simple way to reduce your intake while still enjoying a hearty, fibre-rich breakfast. Furthermore, many Jordans products are rich in wholegrain oats, which provide a good source of fibre and can help lower blood cholesterol as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion: Your label-checking best friend
To answer the question, "Does Jordans granola have added sugar?", the answer is both yes and no, depending on the specific product. Some Jordans granolas, like the 'No Added Sugar' variants, contain no added sweeteners, relying instead on natural ingredients and flavourings. Other varieties, especially those with honey or dried fruit, do contain added sugar. Therefore, the most effective strategy for making a healthy choice is to carefully read the ingredient list and the nutrition facts panel. This ensures you know exactly what is in your breakfast and can select a product that aligns with your dietary needs and health goals.
For more information on decoding nutrition labels, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers excellent resources on their website.
What to look for on the nutritional information
- Check the 'Sugars' line: This includes both naturally occurring and added sugars. To differentiate, look for sweetening ingredients in the ingredients list.
- Scan the ingredients: Read the list for common sugar names like sugar, honey, syrups, or fruit juice concentrates.
- Total sugar vs. added sugar: In the US, the FDA requires 'Added Sugars' to be listed separately. Look for this line for the most accurate information.
- Fibre content: Products with higher fibre, like wholegrain oats, are generally a healthier choice and can help offset the effect of natural sugars.
- Portion size awareness: Always check the recommended serving size when comparing the sugar content to other products.
Making an informed choice with Jordans
Whether you're seeking a simple wholegrain base or a more elaborate mix with fruit and nuts, Jordans has a variety. If managing sugar intake is a priority, begin your search with the 'No Added Sugar' range and verify the ingredients. For a treat or an occasional breakfast, a granola with added sugar might be acceptable, but always be mindful of the portion size. The transparency on the back of the pack is your most reliable tool for navigating the options and choosing the best granola for your breakfast bowl.
