A Crash Course on the Many Types of Sugar
All sugar is made by first extracting sugar juice from sugar beet or sugar cane plants, and from there, many types of sugar can be produced. Through slight adjustments in the process of cleaning, crystallizing and drying the sugar and varying the level of molasses, different sugar varieties are possible.
What are the different types of sugar?
Sugars are classified in a number of ways including crystal size (granulated, powdered, or superfine) and color (white or brown). Sugars of various crystal sizes provide unique functional characteristics that make the sugar suitable for different foods and beverages. Sugar color is primarily determined by the amount of molasses remaining on or added to the crystals, giving pleasurable flavors and altering moisture. Heating sugar also changes the color and flavor (yum, caramel!). Some types of sugar are used only by the food industry and are not available in the supermarket.
Clearing up Confusion
Here are some quick definitions and links to what these terms actually mean.
