A comparative study of the manufacturing process of sugar and jaggery

Unique research on diet and daily conducts by Maharshi Adhyatma Vishwavidyalay

Sugar has a unique significance in Indian food culture. ‘Black sugar’ being used since the early times is one such type of sugar.

However, there is a vast difference between the methods of manufacturing sugar in the past and the method now.

In contrast, jaggery has been used by Indians for long. The process of manufacturing jaggery has not changed much. The following comparative study will show that humans have done great harm to themselves in the name of a modern lifestyle.

1. Manufacturing process of sugar and its harmful effects

In the past, to manufacture sugar, sugarcane juice was extracted, filled in an earthen pot, dried in the sun to remove the water content. Now, in the name of refining sugar, many vitamins and minerals are removed through various processes and use of chemicals, and only ‘sucrose’ eventually remains. This makes sugar more harmful.

A. The sugar we buy from the market is not natural. Sugarcane juice is chemically processed to manufacture sugar. This process uses chemicals such as Sulfur Dioxide, Phosphoric Acid, Calcium Hydroxide and Activated Carbon. In this process, other components of sugar are removed, and a portion of sugar called ‘sucrose’ remains.

B. This type of sugar is harmful for human health. Its overuse can lead to ailments such as obesity and heart disease.

C. The ‘sucrose’ in sugar is very harmful for the body. When this component enters the body, the blood sugar level rises rapidly. Therefore, people who have diabetes, are prohibited from consuming sugar.

D. Various chemicals used for purifying sugar also remain in minute proportion in the sugar. They lead to adverse effects on the body.

2. Experience about sugar factories

I lived in Kolhapur (Maharashtra) from 2012 to 2013 for my XI and XII standard education. At that time, I used to travel about 3 hours to reach my town in the Konkan during vacations. There was a sugar factory on the way. Since it was part of a densely populated area, buses used to stop there almost every time. However, I used to feel that buses should not stop there. At that time, I used to ask myself – Why am I getting such a thought.

Chemicals used in the factories create negativity in the factory premises. The negative vibrations emanating from these factories also affect the surrounding environment. This was the reason I felt that busses should not to stop in that area.

3. Manufacturing process of
jaggery and benefits obtained from it

A. Jaggery is made from a natural process. To make jaggery, sugarcane juice is boiled and the water content is removed. Once it is cooled, we get jaggery. Nowadays, even in the process of making jaggery, a chemical called ‘Hydrosulphite’ is used for avoiding the jaggery from getting a dark hue. Organic jaggery (dark-colour jaggery) is a good alternative. Organic jaggery is also easy to identify. It is darker in color than chemical jaggery.

B. Jaggery contains other nutrients besides sugar. So jaggery is healthier for the human body.

C. If jaggery is consumed with food, it enhances digestion.

D. Jaggery is not absorbed immediately in the body. Therefore, it is beneficial for everyone including diabetics. However, since it also contains sugar, it should be consumed in limited quantity.

4. Difference between making
kheer (Wheat pudding) with sugar and jaggery

The modern day education system focuses on understanding Creation. The ancient education system focused on understanding the Creator (God) and how His consciousness permeates all of Creation. In this way, from His Creation a disciple was taught how to merge with the Creator through any discipline. There is no other
University that teaches Spirituality (Hindu Dharma) in this manner, even though such education forms the basis of a spiritual life.

-Mr. Rutwij Dhavan (He has completed Hotel Management Course), Maharshi Adhyatma Vishwavidyalay, Ramnathi, Goa. (15.9.2020)