Pure cane sugar is chemically the same as beet-sugar. Maple sugar would not be different from common sugar, if it were sufficiently purified to remove the flavoring matter.

Description

Cane sugar occurs naturally in crystals, some of which are extremely hard (rock candy); and in syrups, one of which is molasses.

Sources, Etc

Cane sugar is found in the sap or juices of a variety of plants, including sugar cane, the beet, the sugar maple, etc. Whether obtained by collecting sap or crushing, etc., it is always at first a syrup and all solid sugar is obtained from these juices by various methods.

Uses As Food

Cane sugar enters into the dietary very largely, pure for table use, and in confectionery, or in combinations with other foods in cookery. It is a very valuable source of energy, but must be used with discretion, because in too large amounts or in too concentrated form it is irritating to the stomach and liable to ferment, and also because being quickly absorbed, it satisfies the appetite before the need for food has been entirely met, or blunts it so that other foods become distasteful. A pound of sugar and a pound of pure cornstarch are nearly equal in energy value. For children, it is much better to give sugar in the form of sweet fruits, because they are then supplied with valuable mineral salts which are entirely lacking in pure sugar.