Simple Mills has built its reputation on creating foods with minimal, wholesome ingredients, and that philosophy extends to their choice of sweeteners. The definitive answer to the question, "Do Simple Mills use refined sugar?" is no. The company prides itself on using natural, unrefined sugars and avoiding the processed varieties found in many conventional snacks.
The Difference Between Refined and Unrefined Sugar
To understand Simple Mills' approach, it's helpful to know the distinction between refined and unrefined sugar.
Refined Sugar
Refined sugar, like white table sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, is heavily processed and stripped of its original minerals and nutrients. The refining process often involves bleaching and other chemical treatments. These sweeteners offer empty calories and can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Unrefined Sweeteners
Unrefined sweeteners, such as coconut sugar and honey, undergo minimal processing. While they are still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, they retain some of their natural nutrients. For instance, coconut sugar contains trace amounts of iron and zinc, which are removed during the refining of cane sugar.
Simple Mills' Preferred Sweeteners
Simple Mills uses a strategic combination of natural sweeteners to achieve the right flavor profile in their products without resorting to refined sugars. Their choice of sweeteners often includes:
- Coconut Sugar: Sourced from the sap of coconut palms, this low-glycemic sweetener is used in many of their baked goods and cookies, including their crunchy chocolate chip cookies.
- Honey: Used for a natural, unrefined sweetness, honey is featured in certain products like their honey cinnamon sweet thins and soft baked cookies.
- Other natural sources: In some products, the sweetness may come from ingredients like dates or dried fruit.
Where Simple Mills Gets Its Sweeteners
- Coconut Sugar: Sourced from dried and milled coconut palm sap, chosen for its sustainable profile and minimal processing.
- Honey: Simple Mills ensures they use 100% pure honey from suppliers who support bee-saving initiatives.
Simple Mills Sweetener Comparison
| Feature | Simple Mills (Unrefined) Sweeteners | Conventional Snacks (Refined) Sweeteners |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Level | Minimal processing; sap is dried and milled. | Heavy processing; often bleached and chemically treated. |
| Nutrient Content | Retains trace minerals like iron and zinc. | Stripped of most natural nutrients. |
| Sourcing | Often from sustainable sources like coconut palms. | Typically sourced from sugarcane or corn. |
| Key Examples | Coconut Sugar, Honey. | White Cane Sugar, High-Fructose Corn Syrup. |
| Simple Mills Example Product | Crunchy Cookies (uses Coconut Sugar). | Many traditional cookies, cereals, and baked goods. |
Sweeteners in Specific Simple Mills Products
The sweeteners used by Simple Mills can vary depending on the product line. A review of different categories provides a clearer picture:
Cookies
For their cookies, Simple Mills uses coconut sugar and honey to create a satisfying, yet naturally sweet, flavor. The amount of sugar is also kept in check, with products like their Crunchy Chocolate Chip Cookies containing a moderate 7g per serving.
Crackers
Many of Simple Mills' crackers, such as the Rosemary & Sea Salt Almond Flour Crackers, contain little to no added sugar. The ingredients focus on the nut and seed flour blend, relying on savory herbs for flavor instead of sweetness. This makes them an excellent option for those looking to avoid sugar entirely.
Baking Mixes
Simple Mills' baking mixes, including their Banana Muffin Mix, also rely on unrefined coconut sugar for sweetness, allowing consumers to bake treats at home with cleaner ingredients.
Conclusion: Simple Mills Stays True to Its Mission
Simple Mills lives up to its brand name by using simple, whole-food ingredients and consciously avoiding refined sugar. By opting for unrefined sweeteners like coconut sugar and honey, the company provides consumers with baked goods and snacks that offer a more wholesome option than many competitors. For those seeking to reduce their intake of processed and refined sugars, Simple Mills offers a clear and transparent choice. For more details on all of their ingredients, you can visit the Simple Mills Ingredients page.
