The main differences between these types of sugar are in their nutritional composition, color and taste.
Demerara sugar undergoes a light refinement process, without receiving additives, and therefore retains a good part of its nutrients. Brown sugar does not go through the refinement process, preserving its composition and taste, whereas refined sugar loses all its nutrients and color during the refining process, in addition to receiving many additives chemicals.
| Demerara | brown | Refined | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What is it | Type of sugar that undergoes a light refinement process, and without the use of chemical additives. So it retains most of its nutrients. |
Brown sugar does not go through the refinement process, so it retains its nutrients. This type contains 95% sucrose and 5% molasses, which gives it a strong molasses flavor, in addition to giving it its color. |
Refined sugar has its molasses removed, and is turned white by the great process of refining and using chemical additives, which also strips away all its nutrients. It is composed of 99.9% sucrose. |
| Characteristics | Its crystals are large, and have a light brown color. | Brown color, molasses flavor and more moist consistency. | White color, fine grains. |
| Benefits | It has no chemical additives. | It has more vitamins and mineral salts. | Easier to find, cheaper, nicer taste. |
| weaknesses | It is one of the most expensive types of sugar. | The strong taste of sugarcane does not appeal to many people. | Lack of vitamins, large amount of chemical additives. |
| Calories (100gr) | 377 kcal | 377 kcal | 398 kcal |
| Phosphorus (100gr) | 22mg | 22mg | 2mg |
| Potassium (100gr) | 346mg | 346mg | 2mg |
| Calcium (100gr) | 85mg | 85mg | 1mg |
Raw sugar
Demerara Sugar was originally manufactured in the port of Demerara, British Guiana. It comes in the form of large light brown crystals that are slightly sticky to the touch. Its flavor is light and delicate, less intrusive than the taste of brown sugar.
This sugar undergoes a light refining process, without the addition of chemicals, which is why it retains some of its nutrients. It is a good alternative for those who do not want to use white sugar, but do not adapt to the strong taste of brown sugar.
This sugar has fewer calories than refined sugar, but like other sugars, it is high in calories and can be fattening if consumed in moderation.
Brown sugar
Brown sugar is raw sugar, dark and more humid, extracted after cooking the cane. As brown sugar does not go through the refinement stage, it preserves calcium, iron and mineral salts. This also causes it to maintain a darker color.
Its taste is very similar to that of molasses, which some people dislike. However, for maintaining its nutrients, this sugar is considered one of the healthiest compared to others. It also has fewer calories than white sugar.
Refined sugar
Refined sugar is made by diluting crystal sugar. It goes through numerous refinement processes, causing it to lose its color, as well as virtually all of its nutrients and minerals, becoming an empty calorie.
Its grains are fine and easily diluted. Because it has a less pronounced taste, it is the sugar most used to sweeten juices and coffee, and also in food preparation.
See also the difference between:
- diet and light
- Types of Carbohydrates
