Demystifying the 'No Sugar Added' Label
When you pick up a carton of Breyers labeled "No Sugar Added," it is easy to assume that the dessert is entirely devoid of sugar. However, this is not the case. The key to understanding its nutritional profile lies in the distinction between added sugar and total sugar. The product contains 0g of added sugars, but naturally occurring sugars, primarily lactose from the milk, are still present. For example, a 2/3 cup serving of Breyers No Sugar Added Vanilla contains 5 grams of total sugars. This naturally occurring sugar is a consideration for anyone monitoring their intake, such as those with diabetes or following a low-carb diet.
The Sweeteners That Replace Sugar
To achieve a sweet taste without the use of sugar, Breyers uses a combination of alternative sweeteners. These include both artificial non-caloric sweeteners and sugar alcohols. The ingredients list for the vanilla variety typically includes:
- Maltitol Syrup: A type of sugar alcohol used as a bulk sweetener. Maltitol provides a sweet taste but contains fewer calories than sugar and is absorbed more slowly by the body. However, it can cause digestive upset for some people when consumed in large quantities.
- Acesulfame Potassium: A non-caloric artificial sweetener.
- Sucralose: The brand-name sweetener Splenda, which is also a non-caloric artificial sweetener.
These sugar substitutes are responsible for the dessert's sweet flavor profile, allowing it to contain less overall sugar than traditional ice cream.
Not an Ice Cream: Understanding 'Frozen Dairy Dessert'
Another important distinction for consumers to note is that Breyers No Sugar Added is labeled as a "frozen dairy dessert," not ice cream. This is because it does not meet the federal requirements for milkfat content to be classified as ice cream. By using a lower-fat dairy base, often with added stabilizers and emulsifiers, Breyers can produce a dessert with a similar texture and mouthfeel while keeping the calories and fat content down. The ingredients like mono and diglycerides, carob bean gum, and guar gum help with this.
A Closer Look at Carbohydrates and Sugar Alcohols
For those on a ketogenic or strict low-carb diet, focusing on net carbs is crucial. Net carbs are calculated by subtracting dietary fiber and sugar alcohols from total carbohydrates. A serving of Breyers No Sugar Added Vanilla contains 17g of total carbohydrates, with 8g coming from sugar alcohol. While this brings the net carb count down, it's still a significant amount for individuals with very strict carb limits, and can impact blood sugar levels. The presence of maltodextrin, a highly processed corn-based carbohydrate, can also cause blood sugar spikes for some people.
Potential Side Effects of Sugar Alcohols
- Digestive Issues: Consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols like maltitol can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea, especially in sensitive individuals.
- Blood Sugar Impact: While not as potent as sugar, maltitol still has a glycemic impact and can raise blood sugar levels.
- Caloric Value: Sugar alcohols are not calorie-free. Maltitol contains about 2.1 calories per gram, which is lower than sugar's 4 calories per gram but still contributes to the total calorie count.
Comparison: Breyers No Sugar Added vs. Other Desserts
To put Breyers No Sugar Added into perspective, let's compare its nutritional profile to other Breyers products. Data points are based on typical vanilla-flavored offerings and may vary slightly by recipe or container size.
| Nutritional Aspect | Breyers No Sugar Added Vanilla (per 2/3 cup) | Breyers CarbSmart Vanilla (per 2/3 cup) | Standard Breyers Vanilla (per 2/3 cup) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | ~100 | ~170 |
| Total Fat | 4g | ~6g | ~9g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17g | ~16g | ~19g |
| Sugars | 5g | 4g | ~17g |
| Added Sugars | 0g | 0g | ~17g |
| Sugar Alcohol | 8g (Maltitol) | Variable (Maltitol, Erythritol) | 0g |
| Net Carbs | ~9g | ~11g | ~19g |
| Sweeteners | Maltitol Syrup, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Maltitol, Erythritol, Stevia, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Sugar, Glucose |
Note: CarbSmart's recipe has changed over time, with some reviews indicating a higher net carb count in newer recipes.
How to Include Breyers No Sugar Added in a Healthy Diet
For those who enjoy this dessert, moderation is key. It can be a good option for managing sugar intake, but its impact on blood glucose and potential for digestive issues should be considered.
Tips for mindful consumption:
- Portion Control: Stick to the recommended serving size to manage calorie and carbohydrate intake.
- Monitor Blood Sugar: If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels after consuming to understand its specific impact on your body.
- Consider Alternatives: For a dessert with even lower net carbs and a more natural profile, consider other options or even homemade low-carb alternatives.
- Read the Label: Always double-check the ingredient list and nutritional facts, as they can change over time.
Conclusion
So, how much sugar is in Breyers sugar free ice cream? The answer is not zero. Breyers No Sugar Added frozen dairy dessert contains a small amount of natural sugar from milk, but zero added sugar. Its sweetness comes from a mix of artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, primarily maltitol. While it offers a lower-sugar treat compared to regular ice cream, it is not a calorie-free or carb-free food and can affect blood sugar levels. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and being mindful of portion sizes, individuals can make an informed choice that fits their dietary needs. For the most up-to-date and specific nutritional information, it's best to check the Breyers website or the product's packaging directly.
