Globally, sugarcane can be used to produce biofuel, but beyond that, its juice can also be processed into a raw type of organic sugar known as Panela. Not only is Panela aromatic, flavorful, and sweet, but it is also organic, environmentally friendly, and sustainable.
Just in case, the word “panela” sounds strange to you, do not worry. This blog will discuss all you should know about this simple and sweet alternative.
Definition
Panela sugar can easily be found in parts of the Caribbean and across Latin America. Most times, the best way to make organic Panela is by cutting the sugarcane down and then using a kettle for cooking it in small batches. Some people prefer to dehydrate the juice from the raw sugarcane, then take the dried end product and compress it into blocks where it is best consumed as a beverage or food.
Because the traditional panela raw sugar can still be produced with traditional technology, Panela is not just a sugar alternative to your health but also an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative.
Reasons why you should buy Panela raw sugar
Now that you can define what Panela is, let’s look at its benefits. Below are reasons why you should buy panela raw sugar.
1. It is suitable for baking, cooking, and beverages
Raw Panela is made using traditional techniques and methods, either through hand cutting, kettle cooking, etc. What you didn’t know is that these traditional processes help to give your Panela its own unique aroma and flavor. Now you can buy Panela raw sugar in place of the white, brown and turbinado sugar found in beverages and other products.
But that’s not all, as Panela is suitable for complementing the minerality and flavor and minerality of coffees and teas and can be served either chilled or hot. It can also be used in blended juices, smoothies, and as a sweetener for cocktails.
2. It contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals
When trying to refine sugar and separate its molasses content from the sugar crystal, there is a certain flavor and aroma that gets lost. This means that you will not be capable of retaining any good part of the sugar cane, including the minerals, vitamins and amino acids like potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E.
Moreover, the traditional panela raw sugar contains more complex carbohydrates than any conventional sugar product. This is why we will always recommend Panela for athletes looking to sustain their energy release.
3. It is sustainable
Panela raw sugar can be produced using traditional technology, especially by small-scale farmers living in Colombia and other regions of Latin America. Most of these Organic raw sugar farms are USDA Certified and involve very sustainable processes. These processes are designed to protect the environment where you can harvest and process your sugarcane, including the communities where these sugars are traditionally made.
Conclusion
There are numerous benefits of these panela raw sugar as they retain all the vitamins, antioxidants and minerals found in a sugar cane plant. Now it’s time to try it yourself.
