Decoration: Sugar

Sugar is a common carbohydrate, primarily sucrose, that provides a sweet taste. It is typically extracted and refined from plants like sugar cane or sugar beets. The process involves crushing the plants to extract juice, which is then purified, evaporated, and crystallized.

Manufacturers add sugar primarily as a sweetener to enhance the taste of foods and beverages. It also contributes to texture, bulk, and browning in baked goods, and can act as a preservative in jams and jellies. It is found in a wide range of products, including cakes, cookies, candies, and sweetened drinks.

Sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 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 sugars and determined that an acceptable daily intake (ADI) does not need to be specified. While sugar provides energy, excessive intake of added sugars is associated with health concerns, and health authorities recommend limiting consumption.