Sugar has been around for a really, really long time–most experts agree sugarcane was first harvested in New Guinea beginning around 6000 BC. Crystallized sugar was found about 5000 years ago in the Indus Valley, and Christopher Columbus famously brought it on his second trip to the Americas. During the colonial period, sugar was considered one of the three sides of the triangle trade to create the New World along with African slaves and imported European goods. Even today, the sugar economy is outstanding and likely more powerful than many people realize.
1. It’s Not Just for Sweets
Say the word “candy” and most people envision delectable sweets. However, the residue from the sugarcane process, called bagasse, is a key dry fiber in the production of paper,mulch, fuel, and as a base material for a host of chemicals. This means that sugar goes well beyond satisfying sweet cravings and for those requisite Valentine’s Day gifts. It’s an integral part of everyone’s life.
2. Just the Facts
While sugar has strong roots, there are a number of countries producing and harvesting it around the world. In 2010, Brazil was the top producer with over 719,000,000 tons harvested. India came in second–although trailing way behind–with over 277,000,000 tons produced. China was third at over 111,000,000 tons and Thailand scraped by in fourth place with almost 67,000,000 tons.
3. Sugar Goes Green
Bagasse isn’t the only byproduct of sugar production; in fact, ethanol is a very common (and abundant) side effect. Of course, ethanol is a popular fuel alternative with some vehicles running solely on it, and it’s even required in Brazil that cars use at least 22 percent ethanol. It’s somewhat of a freebie, since it’s going to be produced naturally during the harvesting process. Who says sweets are bad for you?
4. The Many Uses of the Sweet Stuff
Now to the good stuff–eating it. Sugarcane processing produces raw and refined sugar (of course), raw sugarcane, syrup, sugar cane juice, molasses, jaggery, rum, rock candy and a few other selective sweet choices popular around the world. Candy is a multi-billion dollar industry and a staple of many holidays, traditions and milestones around the world. From Christmas to weddings, sugar is almost always a part of any celebration. It’s shocking just how important sugar is, whether it’s in edible form or not. The next time a candy bar calls out in the checkout line, give a little thought to just what it went through to get here.
