If there is enough sugar in the solution – such as a sugar syrup – it will draw water molecules out of the food cells, effectively lowering the food's water activity. This happens via a process of osmosis. ... In this case, water tends to flow out of the cell into the surrounding solution.

How does sugar absorb water?

Salt has a strong ability to absorb water from its surroundings. Above a relative humidity of about 75 percent salt will even become deliquescent, meaning it takes up so much water that it becomes a solution. Sugar is also hygroscopic; it forms weak bonds with the water molecules in its surroundings.

Why strawberries become juicy when sugar is added?

Strawberries will become wet after being sprinkled with sugar because sugar is a solute. This creates a hypertonic solution because the water from inside of the cell travels to the outside of the strawberry to the lower concentration and the solute or sugar. This results in the strawberry becoming wet.