Chocolate Sandwich Cookies - Sugar

Sugar, chemically known as sucrose, is a carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. Commercial sugar is primarily extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets. The process involves crushing the plants to extract their juice, which is then purified, concentrated, and crystallized to produce granulated sugar.

Sugar is widely used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer in a vast array of food products. It also contributes to texture, acts as a preservative in jams and jellies, and aids in browning baked goods. It is a key ingredient in desserts, beverages, candies, and many processed foods.

Sugar is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Excessive intake of added sugars is associated with an increased risk of chronic health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. 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 and EFSA have evaluated sugars.