White Refined Sugar

White refined sugar is a common sweetener made from sugarcane or sugar beets. It is processed to remove molasses and impurities, resulting in pure sucrose crystals. This refining process gives it its characteristic white color and fine texture.

Manufacturers primarily use white refined sugar to sweeten foods and beverages. It also helps with browning in baked goods, adds texture, and can act as a preservative in high concentrations, such as in jams and jellies. It is found in a wide variety of products, including desserts, candies, soft drinks, and many processed snacks.

In the United States, sucrose (sugar) is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. While sugar provides energy, excessive intake of added sugars is a public health concern. 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 has evaluated sucrose and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified), as it is considered a food constituent rather than an additive.