Sugar is a natural ingredient that has always been in our diet. It is also one of the world’s oldest documented commodities. Sugars are carbohydrates. Like all carbohydrates, they provide a source of energy in our diet. In addition to providing sweetness, sugar is also used to balance acidity, add bulk or prevent spoilage among other functional properties.
It acts as the most important tenderizing agent in all baked goods, and one of the factors responsible for the spread in cookies. Brown or yellow sugars are used where their unique flavour is important, or in bakeries.