Garnish: Sugar

Sugar, specifically sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is typically extracted and refined from sugarcane or sugar beets to produce the white crystalline product we commonly use.

Manufacturers add sugar primarily for its sweet taste, enhancing the flavor of foods and beverages. It also contributes to texture, browning, and acts as a preservative in some products like jams. It's found in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, candies, soft drinks, and processed snacks.

In the United States, sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses. While sugar provides energy, diets high in added sugars are associated with an increased risk of health issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend consuming no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA has evaluated sugar and determined that a specific acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not necessary, as it is a natural component of the diet and a primary energy source.