Do you want to make your life sweeter naturally? Sugarcane is a sweet plant that’s good for you in many ways. It’s also a crop that can grow in lots of different places, so it’s great for many homes. In this post, we’ll talk about why sugarcane is good for you and how you can use it in your food. We’ll also talk about how growing sugarcane affects the environment and how it can help make the world better. And we’ll give you some tasty recipes to try using this special and healthy sweetener. So keep reading to learn more about sugarcane and how you can enjoy it in your life!
Sugarcane Juice Nutrition Facts and Calories Chart
Sugarcane is an incredibly nutritious plant-based food. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for the body. It contains high amounts of Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and iron. It also offers a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Sugarcane is also a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to the body. Additionally, it is low in calories and fat, making it a great snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Nutritional value per 100 g sugarcane juice:
- Biotin: 0.004 µg
- Calcium: 11.2 mg
- Carbohydrates (Carbs): 10.94 g
- Chloride: 2.5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Choline: 0.5 mg
- Chromium: 0.006 µg
- Copper: 0.056 mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0.2 g
- Energy (Calories): 32 kcal
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Iodine: 0.02 µg
- Iron: 0.3 mg
- Magnesium: 8 mg
- Manganese: 0.08 mg
- Molybdenum: 0.006 µg
- Pantothenic Acid: 0.09 mg
- Phosphorus: 11 mg
- Potassium: 106 mg
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Saturated fat: 0.1 g
- Selenium: 0.03 µg
- Sodium: 1.64 mg
- Sugars: 9.3 g
- Vitamin A: 0 µg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.04 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.02 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 0.1 mg
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): 0.09 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.03 mg
- Vitamin B9 (Folate / Folic Acid): 1.5 µg
- Vitamin B12: 0 µg
- Vitamin C: 1.4 mg
- Vitamin D: 0 µg
- Vitamin E: 0.02 mg
- Vitamin K: 0.1 µg
- Water: 88.8 g
- Zinc: 0.08 mg
Sugarcane in India
Sugarcane is not a fruit, it is stem of plant. Young shoots and rhizomes are eaten as sugar cane, sweet in taste. Sugarcane is a tropical plant grown mainly in plantations in the West Indies and South America. It is a perennial plant that grows to a height of 20 ft (6 meters). The cane is usually 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) in diameter and closely resembles bamboo.
- Scientific Binomial: Saccharum officinarum
- Common English: Noble Cane
- Ayurvedic: Dirgha-chhada / Bhuurirasa / Morata / Asipatra / Madhutrna / Gudamuula / Trnarasa
- Unani: Gannaa / Naishakar
- Sanskrit: Ikshu / Pundrakah
- Hindi / Urdu: Eekh / Ganna
- Bengali: Aakh / Ikkhu / Gendari / Kushor
- Marathi: Sherdi / Us
- Telugu: Cheruku
- Tamil: Karumbu / Pundaram / Nanal
- Gujarati
- Kannada: Petta patti kabbu / Khabbu
- Malayalam: Karibpu
- Oriya
- Punjabi / Sindhi
- Assamese
- Kashmiri
- Konkani
- Manipuri
- Dogri
- Bhojpuri
Home Remedies
Drinking sugar cane juice can also be beneficial, as can cranberry juice with a little added lime juice. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the juice of the stem in haemorrhagic diseases and anuria; and the root in dysuria. Sugarcane juice is rich source of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, and vitamin D.
- Cane juice contains glycolic acid which improves skin complexion as it has anti wrinkle effect, prevents scaly growth and increases natural collagen andelastin in the skin.
- Fermented juice of sugarcane is good for diarrhea and dysentery. Sugarcane juice alleviates diseases due to derangement of liver and digestive functions.
- Chewing sugarcane mixed with saliva was considered a nourishing tonic, while mechanically extracted juice was considered constipative.
- Sugarcane contains alpha-hydroxy acids, or AHAs that clear away dead cells on the surface of your skin. Use a lotion or cream that contains AHAs. These products encourage collagen growth, which fills in wrinkles. They also counteract free radicals, which are rogue oxygen molecules in your body that can damage your skin.
- Sugar cane juice shows restorative, cooling, laxative, demulcent, diuretic, antiseptic properties. Used in general debility, haemophilic conditions, jaundice and urinary diseases.
- Reputed diuretic drugs include the root of sugarcane, either singly or in combination.
- Food yeast and baker’s yeast are prepared by fermenting sugarcane molasses.
- In homoeopathic medicine, sugarcane is an antiseptic which combats infection and putrefaction; is considered a nutrient and tonic in a variety of cardio-vascular affections.
- Policosanol is a naturally occurring compound extracted from sugarcane wax, beeswax, or rice bran wax. It is composed of a combination of fatty alcohol groups, including octacosanol. Studies shows that it is equally effective as pharmaceutical cholesterol lowering medications. Policosanol appears to do a better job of increasing the good HDL cholesterol.
Side Effects and Disadvantages
Diabetic patients needs to consult doctors before consuming any form of sugarcane. Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should not use policosanol (compound extracted from sugarcane wax). Even though AHA (compound extracted from sugarcane wax) is good for skin, it can sometimes cause irritation, try a touch of the product on a small patch of skin first. If the patch doesn’t turn red by the next day, the moisturizer is safe for you to use.
FAQs.
Q. Is sugarcane juice good for diabetes?
Sugarcane juice contains sucrose, glucose and fructose. Non-sugar constituents present in the cane juice are carbohydrates other than sugars. This makes it unsafe for diabetes.
Q. Is muscovado sugar and brown sugar the same? What is the Indian name for muscovado sugar?
Muscovado sugar, sometimes called mascavo sugar, is common in parts of Southeast Asia and Brazil. The flavor is much more complex and rich than brown sugar and refined white sugar. Due to its limited processing, muscovado retains some of the mineral content lost in refined sugars. It makes an ideal substitute for light or dark brown sugar. Gud, also known as jaggery or crude sugar, is obtained by processing fresh sugarcane juice and exhibits beneficial properties such as cleansing urine, addressing biliary derangement, and acting as a cardiac tonic.
Q. Is sugarcane a fruit or a vegetable?
Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is neither a fruit nor a vegetable; it is a type of tall perennial grass belonging to the Poaceae family. Sugarcane is primarily cultivated for its tall stalks, which contain high levels of sucrose used in sugar production.
Q. What are the different varieties of sugarcane?
Numerous varieties of sugarcane are cultivated worldwide, each possessing specific characteristics suited to various climates and soil conditions. Some common varieties include:
- Co varieties (CO series)
- Canal Point (CP) varieties
- Yellow cane varieties
- Red cane varieties
- NCo (New Co) varieties
- High-fiber varieties
- Low-fiber varieties
Q. What are the main pests and diseases affecting sugarcane?
Some of the main pests affecting sugarcane include:
- Sugarcane borer
- White grubs
- Termites
- Aphids
- Mealybugs
- Leafhoppers
- Scale insects
- As for diseases, common ones include:
- Red rot
- Smut
- Sugarcane mosaic virus
- Ratoon stunting disease
- Bacterial leaf scald
- Rust
Q. What are the by-products of sugarcane processing?
Sugarcane processing yields several valuable by-products, including:
- Bagasse: Fibrous residue used for bioenergy production, pulp and paper manufacturing, and as a feedstock for bioproducts.
- Molasses: Thick syrup used in the production of alcoholic beverages, animal feed, and industrial applications.
- Filter cake: Solid residue from juice filtration used as fertilizer or animal feed.
- Vinasse: Liquid residue from ethanol production used as a fertilizer or for biogas production.
- Press mud (solid waste from filtration)
Q. How is sugar produced from sugarcane?
The process of sugar production involves the following steps:
- Harvesting of mature stalks
- Crushing the stalks to extract juice
- Clarifying and filtering the juice to remove impurities
- Boiling the clarified juice to concentrate the sucrose
- Crystallizing the concentrated juice to form raw sugar crystals
- Centrifuging to separate the sugar crystals from the molasses
- Drying and packaging the sugar for distribution
Q. What are some of the uses of sugarcane?
- Production of sugar
- Production of ethanol for fuel
- Production of molasses for animal feed and industrial purposes
- Utilization of bagasse as a renewable energy source for electricity generation
- Production of rum and other alcoholic beverages
- Use in traditional medicines and folk remedies
Q. What are the different types of sugar produced from sugarcane?
The primary types of sugar produced include:
- Raw sugar: minimally processed sugar containing some impurities and moisture
- Refined sugar: highly processed sugar with all impurities removed, typically in granulated or powdered form
- Brown sugar: sugar with molasses added back for color and flavor
- Demerara sugar: large-grained, partially refined sugar with a light brown color and caramel flavor
- Muscovado sugar: unrefined, dark brown sugar with a strong molasses flavor
Q. What is the difference between raw sugar and refined sugar?
- Raw sugar: Raw sugar undergoes minimal processing and retains some impurities and moisture. It retains some of the natural molasses from the sugarcane juice, giving it a light brown color and a hint of molasses flavor.
- Refined sugar: Refined sugar undergoes extensive processing to remove impurities and moisture, resulting in pure sucrose crystals. This process involves multiple stages of crystallization, filtration, and purification. Refined sugar is typically white and granulated, with no molasses flavor or color.
Q. How is molasses made from sugarcane?
Molasses is a by-product of sugar production. In the sugar extraction process, sugarcane juice undergoes boiling to concentrate the sugar content. As the juice evaporates, it forms a thick syrup. Molasses is the thick, dark syrup that remains after the crystallization of sugar from the juice. It contains a concentrated mixture of sugars, minerals, and other compounds.
Q. Does sugarcane juice increase blood sugar level in the body?
This juice does contain natural sugars, primarily sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Consuming sugarcane juice in moderation is unlikely to cause a significant increase in blood sugar levels for most individuals, especially if consumed as part of a balanced diet. However, individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels should be cautious and consult with a healthcare professional before consuming the juice regularly.
Q. Why do people say that we should not drink water after eating sugarcane?
Some people believe that drinking water immediately after consuming sugarcane can cause digestive issues or discomfort. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Drinking water after eating sugarcane is generally safe and can help prevent dehydration, particularly in hot climates where sugarcane is commonly consumed.
Q. Why is sugarcane healthy and sugar unhealthy?
Sugarcane itself is a natural source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It contains fiber, which aids digestion, and provides a quick source of energy. However, the issue arises when sugarcane is processed into refined sugar. Refined sugar lacks nutrients and contains empty calories, contributing to weight gain, tooth decay, and various health issues when consumed in excess. Sugarcane juice, on the other hand, retains some of the nutrients and fiber present in the raw plant, making it a healthier alternative to processed sugar when consumed in moderation.
Q. What are the benefits of sugarcane juice?
It is rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C, B-complex vitamins), minerals (like calcium, magnesium, potassium), and antioxidants. Some potential benefits of sugarcane juice include:
- Boosting energy levels
- Hydrating the body
- Supporting liver health
- Improving digestion and relieving constipation
- Providing relief from dehydration and heatstroke
- Serving as a refreshing beverage option, especially in hot climates
Q. What are the uses of molasses in cooking and industry?
- Cooking: Molasses finds its way into various culinary applications owing to its distinctive flavor and versatility. It serves as a sweetener in baking, sauces, marinades, and desserts, imparting depth and richness to dishes. Furthermore, molasses can act as a substitute for other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Industry: In the industrial sector, molasses has several applications. Sugarcane finds application in the production of alcoholic beverages like rum, whiskey, and dark beers. Moreover, molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, finds utility in the production of animal feed, fertilizers, and acts as a fermentation substrate in the production of ethanol and other biochemicals.
Q. What are the benefits of using sugarcane bagasse as a renewable resource?
Sugarcane bagasse, the fibrous residue left after juice extraction, has several benefits as a renewable resource:
- Bioenergy production: Sugar mills and power plants can use bagasse as a biofuel to generate heat and electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
- Bioproducts: Companies can convert bagasse into bioproducts such as paper, cardboard, biodegradable packaging materials, and compost.
- Waste reduction: Utilizing bagasse prevents its disposal in landfills, thereby reducing waste and environmental pollution.
Q. How is ethanol produced from sugarcane and what are its applications?
Ethanol production involves fermentation and distillation processes. The process involves crushing sugarcane to extract the juice, fermenting the juice using yeast, which converts the sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide, and then distilling the fermented liquid to separate ethanol from water and other impurities. Ethanol has various applications. Ethanol serves various purposes: it’s used as a biofuel additive in gasoline to reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, it serves as a solvent in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. Moreover, ethanol finds application in the production of alcoholic beverages, perfumes, and personal care products.
Q. What is the role of sugarcane in biofuel production?
It plays a significant role in biofuel production, particularly in the production of ethanol. Sugarcane ethanol represents a renewable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable resources. It can be utilized either as a blend with gasoline or as a standalone fuel in flex-fuel vehicles. Sugarcane cultivation for ethanol production promotes rural development and creates employment opportunities in producing regions.
Q. What are the differences between sugarcane and sugar beets in sugar production?
Sugarcane, a tall perennial grass primarily cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, contains high levels of sucrose in its stalks, which are harvested and processed to extract sugar. Sugar beets, on the other hand, are root crops grown in temperate climates. They contain sucrose in their roots and are harvested and processed similarly to sugarcane to extract sugar. Although both are used for sugar production, their cultivation, harvesting, and processing methods differ due to their distinct growing conditions and plant characteristics.
Q. Which state of India has the highest production of sugarcane?
Uttar Pradesh is the leading producing state in India. It accounts for a significant portion of India’s total sugarcane production due to favorable agro-climatic conditions, irrigation facilities, and agricultural practices in the region.
Q. Can consuming sugarcane juice regularly cause diabetes?
Consuming the juice in moderation is unlikely to cause diabetes. However, excessive consumption of juice, like any other sugary beverage, can contribute to weight gain and may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially in individuals with predisposing factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
Q. How many calories are in 200ml (one glass) of sugarcane juice?
The calorie content of this juice can vary slightly depending on factors such as the sweetness of the sugarcane and any added ingredients. On average, 200ml (one glass) of juice contains approximately 180-220 calories, primarily from natural sugars present in the juice.
Q. Is sugar made from sugarcane only?
Various sources, including sugar beets and other plants containing high levels of sucrose, can yield sugar. However, sugarcane is one of the primary sources of sugar production globally due to its high sucrose content and widespread cultivation in tropical regions.
Q. Is ethanol fuel from sugarcane sustainable?
Yes, ethanol fuel produced from it is considered sustainable for several reasons:
- Farmers can cultivate sugarcane, a renewable and high-yielding crop, in tropical regions without displacing food crops.
- Ethanol production from it results in significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions compared to fossil fuels.
- Sugarcane ethanol boasts a positive energy balance, implying that it generates more energy than is consumed in its production process.
- Ethanol fuel from it can contribute to energy security, rural development, and economic growth in producing regions.