White Cane Sugar

White cane sugar is a common type of sugar made from sugarcane. The sugarcane stalks are crushed to extract juice, which is then purified, concentrated, and crystallized. The raw sugar crystals are further refined to remove impurities and molasses, resulting in the white granulated sugar often found in kitchens.

It is primarily used as a sweetener to improve the taste of foods and beverages. Beyond sweetness, it also adds bulk, helps with texture, and contributes to browning in baked goods. White cane sugar is commonly found in drinks, desserts, baked goods, and many processed foods.

White cane sugar is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As a source of calories, consuming it in large amounts can contribute to health issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting free sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake. JECFA has evaluated sugars and determined an acceptable daily intake, and EFSA has also evaluated sugars.