Abstract

Mass consumption of sucrose (table sugar) far outweighs by volume the consumption of other types of sugars marketed. Industrial production of sugar (sucrose) is based on sugarcane and sugar beet processing. Cane and beet sugars when properly manufactured are identical in physical, chemical, electric, and thermodynamic properties, though the histories of their development are very different. In addition to providing essential nutritional value, the sugar industry has had a large impact on human history and social evolution, and many records of its fascinating role in war and peace exist.

The major role of sugar in supplying the caloric needs of the world's population had evolved by the beginning of the twentieth century. Although the effect of World War II on the sugar industry was drastic, the healthy recovery that occurred during postwar years is indicated, along with the European sugar industry experiencing extensive automation and closing of many small factories. Numbers of processing facilities by country and type in 1995 are given, illustrating the extent of global recovery.

Despite a great expansion in the world sugar industry, U.S. processing suffered setbacks resulting from the appearance of corn sweeteners, noncaloric sweeteners, and the effects of generally misguided health movements.

World production, consumption, and price statistics, as well as the worldwide sugar balance, are provided.