Sugar, turbinado
Whole food · Sweets
Photo: Wikipedia
Turbinado sugar, often called 'raw sugar,' is made from the first crystallization of sugarcane juice, retaining a light, golden-brown color and a subtle molasses flavor. Its large, crunchy crystals dissolve more slowly than white sugar, adding a pleasant texture and a hint of caramel to beverages and baked goods. Nutritionally, it is almost pure carbohydrate, providing a quick source of energy with no protein, fat, or fiber.
Calorie split: 0% protein · 100% carbs · 0% fat
↓ Full nutrition💚 Why it's loved
People love turbinado sugar for its rich, nuanced sweetness that elevates coffee, tea, and cocktails with a touch of sophistication. Its coarse crystals are also prized for creating an attractive, crunchy topping on muffins, cookies, and fruit crisps.
⚠️ Watch-outs & how to enjoy it better
Like all sugars, it is calorie-dense and can contribute to blood sugar spikes, making it a concern for those managing diabetes or watching calorie intake. To counteract this, use it sparingly and pair sugary foods with protein, healthy fats, or fiber to slow glucose absorption.
Key benefits
- Provides a quick energy source from carbohydrates.
- Contains trace minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron from molasses.
- Adds a distinct caramel flavor and crunchy texture.
- Less processed than refined white sugar.
- Dissolves slower, making it ideal for rimming glasses and toppings.
🍽️ Popular dishes
🌍 Where it's eaten
💡 Did you know?
The name 'turbinado' comes from the Spanish word for 'turbine,' referring to the centrifuges used to spin the raw sugar crystals during processing.
Full nutrition (USDA data · scales with serving)
| Water | 0.03 g |
| Energy | 399 kcal |
| Energy | 1670 kj |
| Protein | 0.00 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.00 g |
| Ash | 0.17 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 99.8 g |
| Total Sugars | 99.2 g |
| Sucrose | 99.2 g |
| Glucose | 0.00 g |
| Fructose | 0.00 g |
| Lactose | 0.00 g |
| Maltose | 0.00 g |
| Galactose | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 12.0 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.37 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 2.0 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 1.0 mg |
| Potassium, K | 29.0 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 3.0 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.03 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.01 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.05 mg |
FAQ
Is turbinado sugar healthier than white sugar?
While it is less processed and retains trace minerals from molasses, the nutritional difference is minimal. It is still a form of added sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
Can I use turbinado sugar in baking as a 1:1 substitute for white sugar?
You can, but the larger crystals may not dissolve as easily, potentially affecting texture. It's best for recipes where a crunch or caramel note is desired, like toppings or certain cookies.
What is the difference between turbinado and demerara sugar?
Both are raw sugars with similar flavors, but demerara is typically from Mauritius and has slightly larger, drier crystals. Turbinado is often associated with Hawaiian production and can be a bit moister.
Nutrient density (calculated · NRF9.3)
Nutrient Rich Foods index: beneficial nutrients (protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals) minus saturated fat, added sugar & sodium, per 100 kcal.
NRF9.3 index — Fulgoni, Keast & Drewnowski, 2009. Computed from USDA nutrients.
Weight-loss friendliness (composite index)
Energy density 3.99 kcal/g · 0% calories from protein · 0.0 g fiber · 99.2 g sugar per 100 g.
Composite of energy density (Rolls et al., 1999), protein & fiber satiety, minus sugar. A calculated heuristic — ranks satiety-per-calorie, not a clinical measure.
Dietary load (calculated from USDA values)
Potential renal acid load. Positive = acid-forming, negative = alkaline-forming.
Sodium-to-potassium ratio: 0.10 (lower is better — aim for ≤ 1)
Sodium:potassium per WHO potassium guidance. Computed from USDA nutrients.