Pure Cane Sugar

Pure cane sugar is a common sweetener derived from sugar cane plants. It is primarily composed of sucrose, a disaccharide made of glucose and fructose. The sugar is extracted from the cane juice, purified, and then crystallized.

Manufacturers add pure cane sugar to foods and beverages primarily for its sweet taste. It also functions as a preservative in jams and jellies, helps with browning in baked goods, and contributes to texture and volume. It is commonly found in drinks, desserts, baked goods, and processed foods.

Pure cane sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sugars and concluded that an acceptable daily intake (ADI) does not need to be specified. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. While sugar provides energy, excessive intake of added sugars is associated with dietary patterns that may contribute to health concerns.