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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to enhance flavor in foods and beverages. …
What it is
Sugar, chemically known as sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets through a process of crushing, purification, and crystallization.
Why it's used
Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to enhance flavor in foods and beverages. It also contributes to texture, acts as a preservative in jams and jellies, and helps with browning in baked goods. It is found in a vast array of products, from desserts and soft drinks to processed meats and sauces.
Health notes
Sugar is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 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 total energy intake. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated sugars. While sugar is safe in moderation, excessive intake of added sugars is consistently linked to health concerns such as increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.
Allergen info
Sugar is not considered 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.