Brown sugar contains molasses, making it naturally moist and soft. Commercial brown sugar contains 3.5-6.5% molasses based on volume. Codex Alimentarius requires minimum 88% sucrose plus invert sugar. Modern brown sugar is often produced by adding molasses to refined white sugar
Fruits naturally contain sugars that give them their sweetness. Plants use sweetness to attract animals for seed dispersal. Fruit sweetness increases as it ripens and starches break down. Dried fruits have more concentrated natural sugars
Dates have been consumed for over 6,000 years. They are grown in Middle East, now worldwide. Rich in potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, and iron. Can be stored up to 18 months
Maple syrup is made from sap of sugar, black, or red maple trees. One gallon requires 40 gallons of sap. Contains 216 calories per 1/4 cup serving. Rich in manganese, riboflavin, and antioxidants
One tablespoon of honey contains 64 calories and 17g of sugar. Honey contains 50% glucose and 50% fructose. It provides trace amounts of protein and various minerals
Natural sugars include glucose, fructose, sucrose, and lactose found in fruits and dairy. Added sugar comes from processed foods like white sugar and high fructose corn syrup. Honey, maple syrup, and agave are natural but considered added sugar