Skittles Original Bite Size Candies - Sugar

Sugar, chemically known as sucrose, is a common carbohydrate found naturally in many plants. It is primarily extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets. The process involves crushing the plants to obtain their juice, which is then purified, concentrated, and crystallized to produce the sugar we use.

Sugar is widely used as a sweetener to improve the taste of foods and beverages. It also plays a role in food texture, acts as a natural preservative in some products, and helps with browning during cooking. It is a key ingredient in many processed foods, including candies, baked goods, soft drinks, and various sauces.

In the United States, sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030) recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. Excessive intake of added sugars can lead to increased calorie consumption without providing essential nutrients. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sugars as part of broader dietary assessments. There is ongoing public health discussion regarding the role of sugar in diet and its potential links to obesity and related health conditions.