Label Decoder: Cane Juice

Have you been reading your food labels lately? You may have seen the sweetener “cane juice” under the list of ingredients. But is it really better than sugar?

Related To:

Check the labels on some of those new "natural" beverages at health food stores -- you might notice a common sweetener: "cane juice." But is it really any better than sugar?
What is it?

Simply put: cane juice = sugar. Many food companies have started using cane juice instead of sugar, high-fructose corn syrup and other sweeteners in their mixes. The only difference between cane juice and regular table sugar is that table sugar undergoes an extra step during processing. Because cane juice is less processed, it retains a bit more riboflavin, a nutrient that's naturally found in sugar cane. Cane juice comes in a variety of forms, all of which are darker in color than typical white sugar and have a molasses-like flavor. You might see it listed as “evaporated cane juice,” “milled cane sugar” and “dried cane juice" on labels, but it's all still sugar.

Any Risks?

Like table sugar, cane juice mainly is composed of two sugar units, which combine to create the “double-sugar” called sucrose. Sucrose is quickly and easily digested by the body. Just because you find it in foods marketed as healthier, don't be duped. Cane juice is safe to consume, but eating too much sweetened, processed food can rack up calories quickly. Studies have linked sugar-heavy diets to contributing to obesity, tooth decay and heart disease. Plus, new reports show that Americans are loading up on sugars more and more these days -- the average woman should only get six teaspoons a day but most are getting 22 teaspoons (and teens are consuming even more!).

A little cane juice won't hurt; like we always say, it's all about moderation.

Next Up

The Best Substitutes for Sugar

Find a great swap if you're out of the sweet stuff.

Everything to Know About Low-Calorie Sweeteners

Alternative sweeteners can be up to 700 times sweeter than table sugar. These are the best ones for a variety of needs.

How to Make Simple Syrup

It’s as simple as it sounds.

What Is Turbinado Sugar?

All the best ways to use the sparkling pantry staple.

Is Corn Syrup Bad for You?

We asked a registered dietitian to weigh in.

Honey Is Made for More Than Just Tea — These 5 Recipes Prove It

Honey is having a moment, and we hope it lasts.

Why Doesn’t Honey Expire?

Plus, how to store honey and what to do if it crystalizes.

7 Things You Didn't Know About Beekeeping

Some keepers can even speak "bee."

How to Make Powdered Sugar

If you run out of powdered sugar, it's quick and easy to make your own. Here’s how.

What Is Sucralose?

It’s hiding in many packaged foods, but is it bad for you?