Semisweet Chocolate Chunks Sugar

Sugar, or sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted and refined from sugarcane or sugar beets through a process of crushing, juice extraction, purification, and crystallization.

Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to enhance the taste of foods and beverages. Beyond sweetness, it contributes to texture, aids in browning during cooking, and can act as a preservative in certain products. It is a key ingredient in baked goods, candies, soft drinks, and many processed foods.

Sugar (sucrose) is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sugars as macronutrients and have not set a numeric acceptable daily intake. Excessive intake of added sugars is a public health concern, linked to increased calorie intake and potential health issues.