Gumballs: Sugar

Sugar is a sweet carbohydrate that occurs naturally in plants like sugarcane and sugar beets. It is most commonly extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets and then refined into a granulated white powder. Sugar provides energy to the body.

Sugar is primarily used as a sweetener in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, candies, and beverages. It also contributes to texture, browning, and preservation in many food products. Manufacturers add it to enhance palatability and provide bulk.

In the US, highly refined sugars like granulated sugar are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. The World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that added sugars should be limited in the diet to reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes. Excessive consumption of added sugars is linked to health issues like weight gain and dental cavities. JECFA has evaluated sugar and established acceptable intake levels.