Reese's Pieces Candy - Sugar

Sugar, often referred to as sucrose, is a carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. Most table sugar is extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets. It is produced by crushing the plants to extract their juice, which is then purified, concentrated, and crystallized.

Sugar is primarily used as a sweetener in a wide variety of foods and beverages, including candies, baked goods, and soft drinks. Beyond its sweetening properties, it also contributes to texture, adds bulk, and can act as a preservative in certain food products.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers sucrose (the main component of table sugar) to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Excessive intake of added sugars is a public health concern. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that intake of free sugars should be under 10% of total energy intake. JECFA has evaluated various sugars.