Answer: Certain USANA Food products contain refined sugars (carbohydrates), including fructose. Sugars and other carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are a key part of the overall macronutrient balance of USANA Food products. While excess sugars – or excesses of any macronutrient – can represent a potential health concern, appropriate amounts of carbohydrates are an important part of a mixed and varied diet.
To put the amount of sugar in the Nutrimeals into perspective, one small apple (3 ounces) contains approximately 23 grams of carbohydrates, more than half of which is simple sugar (primarily fructose). This is a similar sugar distribution to Nutrimeal, but in addition to 17 grams of sugar, Nutrimeal also provides 8 grams of fiber, 15 grams of complete protein, 7-8 grams of healthy fat, and a good vitamin/mineral mix.
To summarize, the refined sugar content of a serving of Nutrimeal is not drastically different from that of many fruits. It is, however, very different from the refined sugar content of something like a 44-ounce soda (140 grams of sucrose or high-fructose corn syrup, including ~70 grams of fructose).
As always, USANA scientists advocate variety and moderation in dietary choices. A healthy diet needs to include a moderate intake of a variety of simple sugars, other carbohydrates, fat, protein, fiber, water, and micronutrients.