Blue Pop Ingredients: Sugar

Sugar, often referred to as sucrose, is a sweet carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is typically extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets, then refined into the white crystalline granules commonly used in food.

Manufacturers add sugar primarily for its sweet taste. It also helps preserve foods, adds bulk and texture, and contributes to browning in baked goods. It is a common ingredient in candies, baked goods, beverages, and many processed foods.

Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While sugar provides energy, consuming too much added sugar can contribute to excess calorie intake and dental cavities. 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 sugar and set an acceptable daily intake.