Brown Sugar β Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
π₯ 380 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 98 g | 35.64% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 97 g | 194% |
| Glycemic Index | 65 | - |
| Protein | 0 g | - |
| Sodium | 28 mg | 1.22% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Contains trace minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium, though in very small amounts compared to other nutrient sources.
- Provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content, making it a fast source of energy.
- Enhances flavor in various recipes, making foods more enjoyable and palatable.
- Offers a slightly lower glycemic index compared to white sugar, which may result in a slower rise in blood sugar levels.
Health risks
- High sugar content which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed in large quantities.
- High calorie content which can contribute to excessive caloric intake and weight gain, particularly when added to foods or beverages.
- Potential for overconsumption due to its milder flavor compared to white sugar, leading to increased use and associated health risks.
- Minimal nutritional benefit as brown sugar provides only slightly more minerals than white sugar, but still lacks significant nutritional value.
How to choose brown sugar
Brown sugar should be soft and moist with a fine, clumpy texture, essential for easy incorporation into recipes. The color should be a rich, light to dark brown, depending on whether it is light or dark brown sugar.
Avoid brown sugar that is hard or has large lumps that do not break apart easily, as it may have been exposed to air and lost its moisture. Also steer clear of any sugar that appears overly dry or gritty.
How to store brown sugar
Brown sugar should be stored in an airtight container to prevent it from hardening. Keeping it in a cool, dry place helps maintain its moisture content and softness. Properly stored brown sugar can last for several months.
Exposure to air can cause brown sugar to become hard and clumpy, so this should be avoided. Storing it near heat sources can lead to drying out. Adding a piece of bread or a damp paper towel in the container can help maintain its moisture.
β Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Brown sugar can last indefinitely when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If it becomes hard, it can be softened by adding a slice of bread or a damp paper towel to the container for a few hours.
What to do with leftovers?
π¨ββοΈοΈ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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