Sucanat

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Sucanat (a contraction of "Sugar Cane Natural") is non-refined cane sugar.^[1] Unlike refined and processed white sugar, Sucanat retains its molasses content; it is essentially pure dried sugar cane juice. The juice is extracted by mechanical processes, heated and cooled at which point the small brown grainy crystals are formed.

Sucanat is generally accepted as a substitute for brown sugar.^[2] Unlike regular brown sugar, sucanat is grainy instead of crystalline. Of all major sugars derived from sugar cane, Sucanat (not a "processed" sugar^[3]) ranks the highest in nutritional value, containing a smaller proportion of sucrose than white cane sugar.^[4] However, Sucanat (in common with all sugars) is not a significant source of any nutrient apart from carbohydrate.

Sucanat may be confused with Turbinado sugar, however; the two are fundamentally different. Turbinado sugar contains only a trace amount of its original molasses content, making it similar to refined sugar except with a golden color and a hint of molasses flavor. Sucanat, on the other hand, retains its full molasses content and flavor, thus making it, as stated above, pure dried cane juice. Its grainy form also contrasts with the clear, crystalline form of Turbinado.

Sucanat is a registered trademark of Ragus Holdings, Inc.^[5][6]

[edit] See also

• Rapadura
• Turbinado sugar
• Piloncillo
• Panela
• Jaggery
• Demerara (sugar)
• Muscovado

[edit] References

1. ^ "No Sugar Tonight".
2. ^ Sucanat From Barry Farm Foods.
3. ^ Sucanat From Barry Farm Foods.
4. ^ Harvest Co-op: Nutrition, "Sugars".
5. ^ US Patent and Trademark Office
6. ^ Kitchen Dictionary.