Despite the world reminding us time after time how unhealthy it is to indulge in sweets, it is extremely hard to give up on sugar. Especially when it is a staple in Indian households, from sweetening tea to preparing traditional desserts. And how can we not love desserts when we have endless options like kheer, gulab jamun and gajar (carrot) ka halwa. While sugar extracted from sugarcane is the most consumed sugar in India, have you ever thought of the other sources of sugar that could be healthier? One such sugar source is sugar beet. However, determining which is healthier—or if neither is—requires understanding their differences.

Though chemically identical, cane sugar and beet sugar differ in source, processing, and health impact.

Cane sugar, extracted from sugarcane, is the most consumed sugar in India. Sugarcane is abundant in the country, making cane sugar more available and cheaper. Beet sugar is extracted from sugar beets, which are less cultivated in India. As a result, beet sugar is relatively scarce and, in some cases, more costly.

Cane and beet sugar are nutritionally nearly identical. They are composed of sucrose, and the calorie count is approximately the same—4 calories per gram. However, what separates them is their trace mineral content. Molasses is left in cane sugar, which means it has a little richer flavour with trace nutrients of calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Beet sugar does not have these traces because of its method of processing.

From a health perspective, a high intake of sugar, regardless of its source, leads to issues such as obesity and diabetes, increased heart diseases, and other conditions. The glycaemic index between the two types of sugars is very similar, suggesting that both raise the blood sugar content similarly.

Thus, the choice between cane and beet sugar should not be based solely on perceived health benefits.

Environmental factors also dominate the debate. Sugarcane cultivation requires an enormous amount of water, which in drought-prone regions of India is a grave concern. The climatic condition of India cannot support large-scale beet sugar production either, though it would be less water-guzzling than sugarcane.

For those looking to make healthier choices, the focus should shift from the type of sugar to overall consumption. Reducing sugar intake and opting for natural sweeteners like jaggery, honey, or stevia can be more beneficial. Jaggery, a traditional Indian sweetener made from sugarcane, retains more minerals and antioxidants compared to refined sugar.

In a nutshell, neither cane sugar nor beet sugar can be deemed “healthier” as their effects on health are virtually identical. The preference in India leans toward cane sugar due to its availability and cultural significance. However, mindful consumption and exploring alternative sweeteners are key to maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

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