Tag: Turbinado

The term "raw sugar" is often used for minimally processed sweeteners like turbinado or demerara, but truly raw, unprocessed sugar is not for direct human consumption, according to the FDA. To identify what sugar is closest to raw sugar in a consumer context, one must compare the refining process, flavor, and texture of various cane sugars.

According to nutrition experts, no truly unprocessed sugar is available for commercial purchase, as all sugars must undergo some level of processing to be sold and safe for consumption. You can, however, buy less processed and unrefined alternatives that retain more of their natural characteristics and nutrients.

Over 75% of households in the United States shop at Walmart, and many are now seeking minimally processed ingredients for their pantries. This leads to the common question: Does Walmart sell unrefined sugar? The answer is yes, with several brands and varieties readily available both in-store and online.

While many assume raw sugar is a healthier, less-processed alternative, commercially available raw sugars like turbinado have only undergone one less step of refining than white sugar. This difference primarily affects the color, texture, and flavor, but is raw sugar equal to white sugar in terms of nutrition? The truth is surprising for many home cooks and health enthusiasts.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive sugar consumption increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This has led many to question what type of sugar is not fully processed, seeking out less refined alternatives with a more natural profile than standard table sugar.

Despite its name, commercially available raw sugar is not truly 'raw,' as it undergoes heat processing before being sold to consumers. This minimal refinement retains a hint of natural molasses, distinguishing it from other sugars on the market.

Despite many products being marketed as “raw,” truly unprocessed sugar is not suitable for consumption, according to the FDA. Therefore, understanding what is the closest to raw sugar becomes important for discerning shoppers seeking a minimally refined option.

Did you know that unlike refined white sugar, true non-processed sugar retains its natural molasses? This retention results in a spectrum of appearances, from sticky dark brown clumps to coarse, golden crystals, a stark contrast to the uniform white granules we are used to.

While both come from sugarcane, a primary difference between raw sugar and brown sugar is their processing method and molasses content. Raw sugar is a partially processed sugar that retains some natural molasses, whereas most commercially available brown sugar is refined white sugar with added molasses.

Smoothie King's official menu and nutrition information reveals that removing turbinado sugar can cut up to 100 calories and 25 grams of sugar from a 20-ounce smoothie. This reduction is the primary function of the "make it skinny" option at Smoothie King, making their popular drinks more weight-management friendly.