White Icing- Sugar

Sugar, commonly known as sucrose, is a carbohydrate extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets. It is produced by crushing the plants to extract their juice, which is then purified, concentrated, and crystallized into various forms.

Manufacturers add sugar primarily as a sweetener to enhance flavor in foods and beverages. It also contributes to texture, bulk, and browning in baked goods, and acts as a preservative in jams and jellies. It is found in a wide range of products including cakes, cookies, candies, and soft drinks.

In the US, sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. While it provides energy, excessive intake of added sugars is a public health concern, linked to increased risk of weight gain and dental cavities. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams per meal. JECFA and EFSA have both evaluated sugars.