What is granulated sugar?

Granulated sugar, also known as white sugar, is the most common type of sugar used in households and commercial food preparation. It is made by refining sugarcane or sugar beets, which involves crushing the plant material to extract the juice, purifying it, evaporating the water content, and then crystallizing the sugar. Granulated sugar is composed of sucrose, a disaccharide that consists of one molecule of glucose and one molecule of fructose.

It has fine, individual crystals that are free-flowing and easy to measure, making it convenient for various culinary applications. Granulated sugar is commonly used as a sweetener in beverages, baked goods, desserts, jams, jellies, and many other food products. Its versatility allows it to be used in both sweet and savory dishes, providing sweetness, texture, and flavor enhancement.

Compared to other types of sugars, such as brown sugar or powdered sugar, granulated sugar offers a neutral taste and consistent sweetness, making it a preferred choice for many recipes. It is also a shelf-stable product that can be stored at room temperature for an extended period without spoilage.

Overall, granulated sugar is a widely used and versatile ingredient that plays a significant role in culinary arts and the food industry.