What is a "sweetener"?

A sweetener, as a food ingredient, is used to enhance the sweetness of various dishes and beverages. It is added to provide a sugary taste without the need for natural sugars. Sweeteners come in various forms, such as granulated sugar, honey, maple syrup, artificial sweeteners, and natural alternatives like stevia or monk fruit extract. They are commonly used in baking, cooking, and in the preparation of beverages like coffee, tea, and soft drinks, allowing individuals to customize the sweetness level according to their preferences.