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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sugar is widely used as a sweetener in many foods and beverages, including baked …
What it is
Sugar, chemically known as sucrose, is a sweet-tasting carbohydrate. It is primarily extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets, then purified and crystallized to produce the common granulated sugar we use.
Why it's used
Sugar is widely used as a sweetener in many foods and beverages, including baked goods, candies, and soft drinks. It also functions as a preservative in jams, helps with browning in baked goods, and contributes to texture and volume.
Health notes
Sugar is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). JECFA has evaluated sugar and did not set a numeric acceptable daily intake. While sugar provides energy, consuming too much added sugar is associated with various health concerns. 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 free sugars should make up less than 10% of total energy intake.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.