Yes, cane sugar is generally considered vegetarian.
However, the refining process sometimes involves bone char, which makes it unsuitable for strict vegans. Bone char is used to filter and decolorize the sugar, giving it a white appearance. While the bone char doesn't end up in the final product, its use means the sugar has come into contact with animal products.
Cane Sugar and the Refining Process
Cane sugar production involves extracting juice from sugarcane, which is then processed to remove impurities and crystallize the sugar. The refining process can vary, with some refineries using bone char and others using alternative methods.
Bone Char Filtration
- What it is: Bone char, also known as natural carbon, is a granular material produced by charring animal bones.
- How it's used: It acts as a decolorizing filter, removing color and impurities from the sugar syrup.
- Important note: The sugar doesn't contain any bone char in the final product, but it does come into contact with it.
Alternatives to Bone Char
Several alternatives to bone char are used in sugar refining, making the sugar suitable for vegans. These include:
- Ion-exchange resins: Synthetic polymers that remove impurities.
- Granular activated carbon: Made from coal or coconut shells.
How to Determine if Cane Sugar is Vegan
- Check the Label: Look for labels that specifically state "vegan" or "unrefined."
- Contact the Manufacturer: If unsure, contact the sugar manufacturer to inquire about their refining process.
- Choose Beet Sugar: As the reference states, "If it says sugar from sugar beets, it's vegan." Beet sugar does not use bone char in processing.
- Consider Raw Sugar: Raw sugars are often processed using methods that avoid bone char, though this isn't always guaranteed. Look for certifications.
Brands to Check
- C&H and Domino: These major brands of granulated sugar in the U.S. are cane sugar and may use bone char.
In summary, while cane sugar itself is plant-derived, the use of bone char in its refining process makes it unsuitable for strict vegans but generally acceptable for vegetarians. Checking labels and contacting manufacturers can help ensure your sugar aligns with your dietary preferences.
