Barbecue Seasoning: Sugar

Sugar is a common term for sweet-tasting carbohydrates. It is most often sucrose, which comes from plants like sugarcane or sugar beets. It is made by extracting the sweet juice from these plants and then refining it into crystals.

Sugar is primarily used as a sweetener in many foods and drinks. It also helps to preserve foods, adds bulk, and improves texture and browning. It is found in a wide range of products, including baked goods, beverages, condiments, and snack seasonings.

In the United States, sugar (sucrose) is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. When consumed in moderation, it provides energy. However, eating too much added sugar can contribute to health issues such as weight gain and tooth decay. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA has evaluated sugars and did not set a specific acceptable daily intake, considering them a nutrient.