Washington – The Sugar Association applauds the "Food Day" efforts to address the major dietary and food related issues facing this country and its future generations.

Whether it's hunger or obesity, lack of access to food or lack of affordable, nutrient-dense food, we're glad to see there is greater focus being brought to the issue of making diet, health, and exercise important priorities.

As representatives of America's sugar cane and sugarbeet farmers, we have and will continue to promote the importance of a healthy diet and active lifestyle focused on educating consumers on calories consumed versus calories burned.

All-natural sugar, at 15 calories per teaspoon, can be a part of that balance. It has been a staple ingredient for more than 2,000 years. It is proven, it is trusted, and most importantly it is safe. No matter how many sweeteners come and go, all-natural sugar – used by our mothers and grandmothers before us – will continue to be the gold standard.

Many consumers and food and beverage manufacturers have championed this move back to simple, natural ingredients, and we are proud that sugar is a part of it.