Assorted Chocolates Ingredients: Sugar

Sugar, specifically sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted and refined from sugarcane or sugar beets through a process of crushing, juicing, purification, and crystallization. The resulting white crystalline powder is what is commonly known as table sugar.

Sugar is widely used in food manufacturing as a sweetener to enhance taste and palatability. It also contributes to texture, provides bulk, and can act as a preservative in certain products like jams. It is a key ingredient in candies, baked goods, desserts, and many beverages.

In the United States, sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. While sugar provides energy, consuming too much added sugar is associated with health concerns such as increased risk of dental cavities, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. JECFA has evaluated sugar and established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) "not specified," meaning there is no need to set a limit because consumption levels are not considered a health concern.