Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar is a sweetener made from the sap of the coconut palm tree's flower buds. The sap is collected, heated to evaporate most of the water, and then processed into granules or a paste. It retains some of the minerals and antioxidants found in the original sap.

Manufacturers use coconut sugar primarily as a sweetener, offering a slightly caramel-like flavor. It can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar in many applications, including baked goods like cookies and cakes, chocolate products, and beverages. It functions similarly to regular sugar in recipes.

In the U.S., coconut sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a sweetener. It contains some minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium, and has a slightly lower glycemic index than refined white sugar, meaning it may raise blood sugar levels more slowly. However, it is still a sugar and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated sweeteners, but specific evaluations for coconut sugar's health impacts at typical consumption levels are limited.