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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add sugar primarily as a sweetener to improve taste. It also contributes to …
What it is
Sugar, also known as sucrose, is a carbohydrate found naturally in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Commercial sugar is primarily extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets, then refined to produce crystalline granules.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add sugar primarily as a sweetener to improve taste. It also contributes to the texture, bulk, and browning of many foods, and can act as a preservative in jams and jellies. It is widely used in baked goods, desserts, beverages, and processed foods.
Health notes
In the US, sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. While it provides energy, consuming too much added sugar is linked to dental cavities, weight gain, and an increased risk of chronic health conditions. 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 daily energy intake. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sugars in the context of diet and health.
Allergen info
Sugar is not a major allergen and does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.