Unrefined Sugar
Also known as: raw sugar
Unrefined sugar is still a free sugar — its trace minerals from molasses do not meaningfully change health impact. The WHO recommends limiting free sugars to <10% (ideally <5%) of total energy intake; AHA recommends ≤25 g/day for women and ≤36 g/day for men.
What it is
Less-processed sugar that retains some molasses (e.g., turbinado, demerara, muscovado, jaggery); chemically still mostly sucrose.
Sweetener; contributes flavor, color, browning, and bulk; used in baking and beverages.
Why it's flagged
- free sugar — same metabolic effects as refined sugar
- contributes to obesity, T2D, dental caries
What regulators actually say
"Free sugars should make up less than 10% of total energy intake; further reduction to less than 5% would provide additional health benefits"
"AHA recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25g) per day for women and 9 teaspoons (36g) for men"
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS
European Union — EFSA
Permitted food
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