The primary source of sugar is sugarcane, though sugar beets are also widely used. Sugarcane, a tropical grass, is cultivated in warm climates and is processed to extract sucrose, the sugar commonly used in various foods and beverages. The juice extracted from sugarcane is boiled to crystallize the sugar, which is then further purified for consumption. Sugar beets, primarily grown in temperate regions, are another significant source, processed similarly to yield granulated sugar. Sugar is not only a sweetening agent but also contributes to fermentation, preservation, and the improvement of texture in culinary applications.