Natural Unrefined Cane Sugar
Despite its 'natural' marketing, unrefined cane sugar is metabolically equivalent to refined sucrose. WHO recommends limiting free sugars to <10% of daily energy intake.
What it is
Sugar crystallized from sugarcane juice with minimal refining, retaining some natural molasses for color and flavor.
Sweetener that also contributes color, moisture retention, browning, and texture.
Why it's flagged
- Contributes to excess free sugar intake
- Linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental caries when consumed in excess
What regulators actually say
"Sucrose is the chemical beta-D-fructofuranosyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside. The ingredient is generally recognized as safe."
"WHO recommends a reduced intake of free sugars throughout the lifecourse... to less than 10% of total energy intake."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS; sucrose listed in 21 CFR 184.1854
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as a traditional food ingredient; subject to nutrition labeling
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