FDA: Sugar-free not always low-cal

Makers of sugar-free foods must tell consumers when their products aren’t low-calorie or reduced in calories, U.S. regulators said.

The Food and Drug Administration is “concerned about a number of products” advertised as sugar-free that don’t bear the required disclaimer on calories, according to a letter to manufacturers posted on the agency’s website. Consumers might erroneously assume that all products without sugar will help them lose weight, the FDA said.

The agency urged companies to review their labels to ensure that they meet the requirements. Failure to do so will result in regulatory action, the FDA said.