Crystal Sugar

Crystal sugar, also known as granulated sugar or table sugar, is a common form of sucrose. It is a disaccharide, meaning it is made of two simple sugars (glucose and fructose) linked together. It is primarily obtained from sugar cane or sugar beets, where it is extracted, purified, and then crystallized.

Crystal sugar is widely used as a sweetener in a vast array of food products, including baked goods, beverages, and confectionery. Beyond its sweetening properties, it also contributes to food texture, aids in browning during cooking, and acts as a preservative in high concentrations.

Sucrose, the main component of crystal sugar, is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It provides calories and, like all sugars, can contribute to dental caries. Excessive intake of added sugars is a public health concern; 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.