Now Available: New Educational Resources about Sugars

The Canadian Sugar Institute is pleased to announce two new and improved resources to support evidence-based communications about added sugars including their functions in foods and overall dietary patterns. Resources highlight key takeaways and include updated summaries of current research.

1. Frequently Asked Questions about Sugars Fact Sheet Series

This new fact sheet series addresses five frequently asked questions Canadians have about sugars, supported by current scientific evidence. These resources provide clear, research-based explanations on key topics, helping to clarify common misconceptions, and support informed decision-making on the following topics: 

• Sugars consumption in Canada, 
• Distinguishing between naturally occurring and added sugars, 
• The latest research on sugars and obesity,
• The relationship between sugars and chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and 
• Functional roles sugar plays in different foods.

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions about Sugar webpage to explore the full series and download the fact sheets!

2. Redesigned "A Touch of Sugar" Recipe Collection 

This refreshed recipe card collection brings together 20 recipe ideas, including nutrient-dense breakfasts, balanced entrees, savoury soups, and simple sweet treats. Each recipe is designed to align with healthy eating patterns while demonstrating how a small amount of sugar can enhance palatability and overall food enjoyment.

The collection also highlights the diverse functional roles sugar plays in foods, including:

• Texture and structure: Sugar contributes to volume, tenderness, and stability in baked goods.
• Moisture retention and preservation: Sugar helps maintain softness, slows staling, and supports freshness.
• Color and browning reactions: Sugar reacts with heat (caramelization) or with heat and proteins (Maillard reaction) to create a golden-brown colour in baked goods and meats.
• Flavour balance: Sugar balances acidic and bitter flavours in tomato and vinegar-based sauces, marinades, and salad dressings. 

To enhance usability and support a wide range of needs, each recipe is clearly labelled to indicate suitability for the following common dietary considerations: 

• Vegetarian/Vegan
• Gluten Free
• Dairy Free

Visit our "CSI Recipe Collection" webpage to explore the full collection and download the individual recipe cards!