Golden Syrup
Also known as: partially inverted refiners syrup, treacle
Golden syrup is essentially inverted sugar – nutritionally equivalent to other added sugars (~80 g sugar per 100 g). Like all added sugars, excessive intake is associated with weight gain, cardiometabolic risk, and dental caries; the WHO recommends limiting free sugars to <10% of energy.
What it is
Inverted sugar syrup (sucrose hydrolyzed to glucose + fructose) with a light amber color and buttery flavor; a refining byproduct of cane/beet sugar.
Sweetener; humectant; provides chewy texture in baking.
Why it's flagged
- added sugar – limit intake
- promotes dental caries
What regulators actually say
"WHO recommends a reduced intake of free sugars throughout the lifecourse... reducing the intake of free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake."
"Added sugars... include sugars that are added during the processing of foods... and also include sugars from syrups and honey."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as sugar; counts toward 'Added Sugars' on Nutrition Facts label per 21 CFR 101.9.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as sugar/sweetener; counts as free sugar in EU dietary guidance.
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