Chocolate Dip: Sugar
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What it is
Sugar is a carbohydrate that comes from sugarcane and sugar beets. It is refined into a white, crystalline substance used to sweeten foods and drinks. The refining process removes molasses and impurities.
Why it's used
Sugar is primarily used as a sweetener to add taste to foods and beverages. It also contributes to texture, browning, and acts as a preservative in some products. It is found in a wide variety of processed foods, including baked goods, candies, and beverages.
Health notes
Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. High intake of added sugars is linked by health organizations to increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sugar and established acceptable daily intake levels. Evidence suggests a link between high sugar consumption and negative health outcomes, but it is not considered a direct cause of disease.
Allergen info
Sugar is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.