Is raw cane sugar an added sugar?

November 5, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), raw cane sugar is classified as an added sugar, just like white table sugar, honey, and high-fructose corn syrup. This may come as a surprise to many who assume its 'raw' and less-processed nature makes it a healthier, more 'natural' option.

Quick Summary

Despite its seemingly natural label, raw cane sugar is considered an added sugar by nutritional standards. This guide explains why, details how to spot it on food labels, and clarifies the key differences between naturally occurring and added sugars.

Key Points

Officially Classified: Raw cane sugar is considered an added sugar according to the FDA.
Nutritional Value: It offers no significant nutritional advantage over refined white sugar, providing empty calories.
Label Transparency: The FDA mandates that food labels specify the amount of "Added Sugars," which includes any raw cane sugar.
Source Matters: The key distinction is that added sugars are separated from their original, whole-food source, unlike sugars in fruits or milk.
Health Impact: Excessive consumption of any added sugar, including raw cane sugar, is linked to negative health outcomes.

The FDA's Definition of Added Sugar

Many people are confused by the term "added sugar," particularly when it comes to products like raw cane sugar. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines added sugars as any sugars or syrups added to foods or beverages during processing or preparation, distinguishing them from naturally occurring sugars found in whole foods like fruits and milk. Raw cane sugar is made by crushing sugarcane and minimally processing the juice into crystals, a process that separates it from its whole-food source and fits the definition of an added sugar. When used to sweeten foods or drinks, it is classified as an added sugar, regardless of its 'raw' label, which only indicates the degree of processing.

Why Raw Cane Sugar is Categorized as an Added Sugar

It is separated from its original source, lacking the fiber and nutrients of the whole plant.
It provides empty calories without significant nutrients.
It is primarily used to sweeten, aligning with the definition of an additive.

Decoding Nutritional Labels: Where to Find Added Sugars

Understanding nutritional labels is vital for informed dietary choices. The FDA's updated labels clearly distinguish "Total Sugars" from "Added Sugars".

Total Sugars vs. Added Sugars

Total Sugars: Includes all sugars (natural and added) in a product.
Added Sugars: Specifies the amount of sugars added during processing.

Raw cane sugar listed in ingredients will contribute to the "Added Sugars" total on the nutrition label. Health organizations like the American Heart Association recommend limiting added sugar intake.

Common Names for Added Sugars

Added sugars can be listed under various names. Be aware of terms such as brown sugar, cane sugar, corn syrup, dextrose, evaporated cane juice, fructose, glucose, high-fructose corn syrup, honey, molasses, raw sugar, sucrose, syrup, and turbinado sugar.

Natural vs. Added Sugars: A Comparison

Comparing naturally occurring and added sugars highlights key differences beyond chemical structure.


Feature	Naturally Occurring Sugars	Added Sugars
Source	Found within whole foods like fruits and milk.	Added during manufacturing or preparation.
Nutritional Context	Packaged with beneficial fiber, vitamins, and minerals.	Typically offer minimal to no nutrients beyond calories.
Absorption Rate	Fiber slows digestion and absorption.	Absorbed quickly, potentially causing blood sugar spikes.
Health Implications	Associated with overall health benefits.	Excessive intake linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Conclusion: Making Smarter Choices

Regardless of labels like "raw" or "natural," any sugar separated from its whole food source and added to a product is an added sugar. Raw cane sugar falls into this category and should be consumed in moderation. Prioritizing whole foods for sweetness provides beneficial fiber and vitamins. Becoming familiar with nutrition labels and understanding the distinction between natural and added sugars empowers you to manage your intake and improve health. For further guidance on healthy eating and sugar consumption, refer to authoritative sources like the American Heart Association and the FDA.

A key resource is the FDA's guidance on added sugars at www.fda.gov.

Understanding Different Sugar Types

Refined White Sugar: Pure sucrose from sugarcane or sugar beets after extensive processing.
Turbinado Sugar: Minimally processed raw cane sugar retaining some molasses.
Brown Sugar: Refined white sugar with added molasses.
High-Fructose Corn Syrup: A liquid sweetener from corn starch, classified as added sugar.

The Health Context of Added Sugars

Limiting added sugars is crucial due to their link to health issues beyond providing empty calories. High intake is associated with:

Obesity and weight gain.
Increased risk of heart disease.
Higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
Dental problems.

Key Takeaways

Categorization: Raw cane sugar is officially an added sugar by FDA standards.
Label Reading: "Added Sugars" on nutrition labels includes raw cane sugar content.
Nutrient Density: Raw cane sugar provides calories but lacks the fiber and nutrients of whole foods.
Moderation is Key: Limit all added sugars, including raw cane sugar.
Prioritize Whole Foods: Choose fruits for sweetness to get natural sugars plus nutrients.
Ingredient Awareness: Added sugars have many names on ingredient lists.

Lists for Comparison and Reference

Naturally Occurring Sugars: Found in fruits, vegetables, and milk.
Common Added Sugars: Include raw cane sugar, honey, maple syrup, corn syrup, molasses, etc..

Conclusion: Health, Not Hype

Focus on nutritional facts over marketing terms. Raw cane sugar is an added sugar, and its minimal processing doesn't change its fundamental health impact compared to other sweeteners. Excessive consumption of any added sugar is detrimental. Prioritize whole foods and read labels carefully to manage your intake and improve dietary habits. A healthy diet involves mindful consumption and choosing nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources.

Additional Considerations

Processing vs. Health: Minimal processing doesn't mean nutritional superiority; trace minerals in raw cane sugar are insignificant compared to whole foods.
Flavor Profile: Residual molasses gives raw cane sugar a subtle caramel flavor.
Beyond Sugar: Overall diet quality, including fiber, protein, and caloric balance, is crucial for well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raw cane sugar is not significantly healthier than white sugar. While it is less processed and retains trace amounts of molasses, these are not nutritionally meaningful. Both are added sugars and should be limited.

It is an added sugar because it has been extracted from its natural source (the sugarcane plant) and is used to sweeten foods during processing or preparation. It is no longer in its original, whole-food state.

Look for terms like "raw sugar," "turbinado sugar," or "evaporated cane juice" in the ingredients list. The quantity will also be reflected in the "Added Sugars" section of the nutrition facts panel.

Not necessarily. The key is whether the sugar is consumed within its whole food context, along with fiber and other nutrients (like in a piece of fruit), or extracted and added to another product. Added sugars, regardless of their original source, should be limited.

Yes, honey is considered an added sugar. Even though it's a natural product, it is a syrup that is typically added to foods or beverages, classifying it as an added sweetener under FDA rules.

Total sugars include all sugars in a product, both those naturally occurring in ingredients like fruit and milk, and any sugars that have been added. Added sugars are the subset of sugars put into the food during manufacturing.

Minimal processing of a sugar like raw cane sugar doesn't alter its fundamental effect on the body's metabolism. It still causes a rapid rise in blood sugar, similar to more refined sugars.