How sugar guidelines differ
The WHO recommends free sugars contribute less than 10% of total energy intake, with an additional conditional recommendation to reduce this below 5% for extra health benefits. The NHS applies a simpler flat limit of 30 g of free sugars per day for adults, regardless of calorie intake.
Free sugars include all sugars added to foods by manufacturers, cooks, or consumers, plus sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, and unsweetened fruit juices. Sugars in whole fruit, vegetables, and plain milk are not counted.