We understand that sugar can be a worry for owners with sugar-intolerant horses, horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome or are prone to foundering.We too had this concern when adding sugar to the formula, as the horse this product was created for, Gallagher, is one of these sugar-intolerant horses.However the sugar in this product is so minimal and makes up only 2% of your horse's daily sugar intake. Gallagher himself enjoys his water every single day. Sugar was only added to sweeten the product slightly and give it some weight. Always consult your veterinarian about your concerns and when introducing a new product to your horse.