32g:sugar

Sugar, or sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets. The process involves crushing the plants to get their juice, which is then purified, evaporated, and crystallized to produce refined sugar.

Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to improve the taste of foods and beverages. It also acts as a preservative in jams and jellies, helps with browning in baked goods, and adds texture and bulk to many products. It is found in a vast array of processed foods, from desserts and candies to sauces and cereals.

Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal, as part of a healthy eating pattern. JECFA has evaluated sugar and did not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI not specified). High intake of added sugars is linked to an increased risk of health issues like weight gain and dental cavities, though sugar itself is not considered inherently harmful in moderation.