In July this year, soft drink giant Coca-Cola Co. announced that it will launch a new version of Coke sweetened with cane sugar. This came days after US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he had "been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so."
The announcement sparked conversations – both online and offline – around whether switching to cane sugar actually made Coca-Cola any healthier. On the occasion of National Nutrition Week 2024, OnlyMyHealth took the opportunity to ask an expert to shed light on how cane sugar compares to white refined sugar, and here’s what she said.
Also Read: National Nutrition Week 2025: Brain-Boosting Foods That Sharpen Memory
Cane Sugar Vs. White Sugar: What Is The Difference?
Divya Achrekar, Deputy Manager - Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai, explained, "Cane sugar is derived directly from sugarcane and may retain trace amounts of molasses, giving it a slightly different flavour and a light golden colour. Refined white sugar, often made from either sugarcane or sugar beets, undergoes more extensive processing to remove molasses, resulting in pure sucrose crystals with a neutral taste and white colour."
Is Cane Sugar Better Than White Sugar Nutrition-Wise?
According to Achrekar, both cane sugar and white sugar are very similar nutritionally, as both primarily contain sucrose and provide comparable calories.
"While cane sugar may retain tiny amounts of minerals like calcium or potassium due to minimal processing, the idea that cane sugar is a healthier option is largely a marketing perception rather than a scientifically supported fact," she said.
It is important to note that the two types of sugar have a similar impact on blood sugar levels, causing a rapid rise followed by a potential drop, especially when consumed in excess. In fact, in a study comparing cane sugar and coconut jaggery, supposedly a healthier alternative, researchers found that while coconut jaggery had slightly more nutrients, both sweeteners caused similar spikes in blood sugar. Researchers also highlighted that cane sugar is almost pure sucrose, providing quick energy but also leading to sharp spikes in blood sugar.
How Much Sugar Is Considered Safe In A Day?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of total daily calories, which is roughly 25 grams (about 5 teaspoons) per day for an average adult.
Achrekar shared that both cane sugar and refined white sugar contribute equally to this limit, so it’s important to monitor the total added sugar from all sources.
Healthier Alternatives To Cane And White Sugar
Healthier alternatives to cane and white sugar include natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. However, these should still be used in moderation, as they impact blood sugar similarly to regular sugar.
Additionally, non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract can provide sweetness without added calories or blood sugar spikes.
Conclusion
While cane sugar may sound more natural than refined white sugar, both are nutritionally very similar and have the same impact on blood sugar levels. The idea that cane sugar is healthier is more of a marketing perception than a scientific fact. Experts stress that regardless of the type, added sugar should be consumed in strict moderation, keeping within the WHO’s daily limit. If you’re looking for healthier options, natural or low-calorie sweeteners can be used, but moderation remains key.