Black Icing: Sugar

Sugar, commonly known as sucrose, is a carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets, which are then processed and refined to produce the white granulated sugar typically used in food products.

Manufacturers add sugar primarily as a sweetener to enhance the taste of foods and beverages. It also plays a role in food preservation, contributes to the texture and browning of baked goods, and provides bulk in many recipes.

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. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that free sugars should account for less than 10% of total energy intake. Excessive intake of added sugars is associated with an increased risk of health issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, according to public health organizations.