Does Treacle Have Fructose? Exploring the Sugar Content and Composition

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

Treacle, a common British sweetener and a byproduct of sugar refining, does indeed contain fructose. As a natural component of the sugar cane or sugar beet molasses used to create the syrup, fructose is present alongside other sugars, influencing its flavor and digestive impact.

Quick Summary

Treacle is a dark, viscous syrup derived from the sugar refining process, and it contains fructose, glucose, and sucrose. The precise sugar balance depends on the treacle type, with darker versions like black treacle being more mineral-rich than lighter golden syrup.

Key Points

Contains Fructose: Yes, treacle contains fructose, along with sucrose and glucose, as a byproduct of sugar refining.
Composition Varies: The sugar balance and flavor differ significantly between types, with golden syrup being lighter and black treacle being darker and more bitter.
High FODMAP: Due to its high sugar content, particularly fructose, treacle is high in FODMAPs in larger servings, which is relevant for individuals with IBS.
Culinary Applications: Treacle is a versatile ingredient used in both sweet dishes like treacle tarts and savory items like meat glazes.
Substitutes Exist: Healthier alternatives for those with sensitivities or who wish to reduce sugar intake include date syrup, raisin reduction, and pure glucose syrup.
Relative to Molasses: Treacle is a term that includes molasses, though commercial products like black treacle are often formulated differently, typically with a less intense flavor than blackstrap molasses.

The Origins and Sugar Composition of Treacle

Treacle is a term often used in the UK to describe various syrups produced during the sugar refining process. It is a close relative of molasses and is created by boiling down the juice from sugar cane or sugar beets. As the sugar is concentrated and crystallized, the remaining liquid becomes treacle. The sugar content is not uniform and consists of a mix of three types of sugar:

Sucrose: A disaccharide made of one glucose molecule and one fructose molecule. It is the primary component of granulated sugar and is also a major sugar in treacle.
Glucose: A simple sugar, or monosaccharide, that is easily absorbed by the body.
Fructose: Another simple sugar, or monosaccharide, naturally present in fruits and sweeteners.

For example, analysis has shown that black treacle contains specific amounts of sucrose, glucose, and fructose. The extended boiling that produces darker syrups, like black treacle, results in some caramelization and alters the sugar balance and flavor.

Treacle vs. Molasses vs. Golden Syrup: A Comparison

While often used interchangeably, treacle, molasses, and golden syrup have distinct characteristics based on their production and sugar profile. Treacle is an umbrella term encompassing both golden syrup and black treacle.


Characteristic	Golden Syrup (Light Treacle)	Black Treacle	Molasses (Dark)
Production	First boiling of sugar cane syrup; contains sucrose and invert sugar.	Made with molasses and refiner's syrup; contains sucrose, glucose, and fructose.	A byproduct from multiple boilings of sugar cane or sugar beet juice.
Color	Pale golden or amber color.	Dark brown to almost black.	Very dark, often thicker than treacle.
Flavor	Sweet with a buttery, caramel-like taste.	Strong, rich, and slightly bitter.	Intensely bittersweet and robust.
Fructose Content	Contains fructose as part of the invert sugar.	Contains fructose, typically less bitter than blackstrap molasses.	Fructose content varies depending on the number of boilings.
Best For	Desserts, pancakes, and treacle tarts.	Gingerbread, savory glazes, and fruit cakes.	Savory sauces, glazes, and richer bakes.

Treacle's Role in a Low FODMAP Diet

For individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the fructose content in treacle is an important consideration. FODMAPs are types of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed by some people, and fructose is one such monosaccharide. Due to its high concentration of various sugars, black treacle is considered a high FODMAP food in larger quantities. A low FODMAP diet aims to reduce the intake of such fermentable carbohydrates to manage symptoms. Those following a low FODMAP diet should be mindful of treacle consumption or consider low FODMAP alternatives, especially during the elimination phase of the diet. It is always recommended to consult a dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Culinary Uses of Treacle

Treacle is a versatile ingredient valued for its deep, rich flavor and moistening properties. It is a staple in many traditional British recipes and has found its way into modern cooking. Its applications range from sweet to savory dishes.

Sweet Applications

Baked Goods: Adds moisture and color to gingerbread, fruit cakes, and scones.
Desserts: Essential for treacle tarts and sticky toffee pudding.
Confectionery: Used in the making of toffee and fudge for a distinctive burnt sugar flavor.
Beverages: Can be used to sweeten and flavor dark rum cocktails or certain teas.

Savory Applications

Glazes and Marinades: Its robust flavor complements savory dishes like glazed ham and other roasted meats.
Sauces: Incorporated into barbecue sauces and other savory condiments for a deep, caramelized taste.

Healthy Alternatives to Treacle

For those seeking a sweetener with less impact on blood sugar or a lower fructose content, several alternatives can be considered. These swaps can offer a similar richness and sweetness while fitting different dietary needs. Alternatives include:

Date Syrup: A natural sweetener made from dates, with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
Raisin Reduction: A whole-food, low-glycemic sweetener made by simmering and blending raisins and water.
Maple Syrup: Offers a distinct flavor profile and a lower glycemic index than some other syrups.
Pure Glucose Syrup (Dextrose Syrup): A low FODMAP option that is generally well-tolerated by those sensitive to fructose.

For a complete nutritional breakdown of food items, including sweeteners, one can refer to reliable databases such as the USDA.

Conclusion

In summary, treacle is a complex sweetener that undeniably contains fructose, alongside glucose and sucrose, as a natural result of the sugar refining process. The exact sugar profile and flavor intensity vary between lighter forms like golden syrup and darker ones like black treacle. This mix of sugars means that for individuals managing conditions like IBS, treacle should be consumed with caution due to its high FODMAP status in larger quantities. However, for those without dietary sensitivities, it remains a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory cooking, contributing a unique color, moisture, and depth of flavor. Ultimately, understanding its sugar composition is key to incorporating treacle into a balanced and informed diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Treacle is the British term for uncrystallized syrup made during sugar refining, which includes molasses. However, commercially, treacle (specifically black treacle) is often a blend of molasses and refiner's syrup, resulting in a milder, sweeter flavor than pure molasses.

While all treacle contains fructose, lighter versions like golden syrup are typically sweeter and less bitter, often containing a different sugar balance than black treacle. Specific fructose percentages can vary by brand and processing method.

Like any sweetener high in calories and sugar, treacle should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Darker treacle contains trace minerals like iron and calcium, but not enough to be considered a significant source.

No, black treacle is considered high in FODMAPs in large quantities, making it unsuitable for the elimination phase of a low FODMAP diet for individuals with IBS. Pure glucose syrup is a low FODMAP alternative.

Golden syrup, or light treacle, has a sweet, buttery, and caramel-like flavor, while black treacle is known for its strong, rich, and slightly bitter taste.

You can substitute treacle with honey in some recipes, but it will significantly alter the flavor profile. Honey is typically sweeter and less complex than black treacle. For a closer match, some suggest using molasses.

Black treacle gets its dark color and strong flavor from the extended boiling of sugar syrup during the refining process. This process concentrates the sugars and promotes caramelization.