Are all sugars classified as saccharides?

All sugars are classified as saccharides, which is a term that encompasses various types of carbohydrates, including monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides. The term "saccharide" itself is derived from the Greek word "sakkharon," meaning sugar.

Monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, are the simplest forms of sugar and cannot be hydrolyzed into smaller carbohydrate units. Disaccharides, such as sucrose and lactose, consist of two monosaccharide molecules linked together. Oligosaccharides and polysaccharides are made up of several or many monosaccharide units, respectively.

Understanding that all sugars fall under the broad classification of saccharides is critical for comprehending their roles in food and beverages, especially in contexts like brewing and fermentation where sugar types significantly influence flavor, fermentation dynamics, and other chemical processes. This classification underlines the universal nature of sugars, making option B the most accurate response.