Contains 2% Or Less: Molasses

Molasses is a thick, dark syrup produced during the refining of sugar cane or sugar beets into sugar. It is a byproduct of the sugar-making process, with different types (like light, dark, and blackstrap) depending on how long the sugar crystals are boiled and spun.

Manufacturers use molasses as a sweetener and coloring agent, adding a rich, slightly bitter flavor and dark hue to baked goods, sauces, and marinades. It's commonly found in gingerbread, brown sugar, baked beans, and barbecue sauces.

Molasses is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It contains some minerals like iron and calcium, but the amounts are small in typical food servings. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated molasses, and it is not associated with significant health concerns when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.