Is Monk Fruit an added sugar?

27 Feb Is Monk Fruit an added sugar?

No, monk fruit (Luo Han Guo extract) is not considered added sugar or a sugar alcohol by the FDA.

1. Is Monk Fruit an Added Sugar?

• No. Monk fruit extract is a high-intensity sweetener with little to no calories and carbohydrates.
• The FDA does not classify it as an “added sugar” because it does not contribute to the total sugar content in the Nutrition Facts Label.
• Per 21 CFR § 101.9(c)(6)(iii), only sugars and caloric sweeteners (like cane sugar, honey, or high-fructose corn syrup) are included in added sugars.

2. Is Monk Fruit a Sugar Alcohol?

• No. Sugar alcohols (like erythritol, xylitol, or maltitol) have a different chemical structure.
• Monk fruit extract does not contain polyols (sugar alcohols) and is not required to be listed under “Sugar Alcohol” on the Nutrition Facts Label.

How to Label Monk Fruit in ESHA Genesis?

• Monk fruit itself does not contribute to Total Sugars, Added Sugars, or Sugar Alcohols in Genesis.
• If your formula contains a monk fruit blend (e.g., monk fruit with erythritol), then erythritol would contribute to Sugar Alcohols.

Reach out to United Food Labs and we will help you become FDA compliant with your labels.