What is coconut sugar and how it's made

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener made from the sap
of the flower buds of the coconut palm tree—not from the
coconut fruit. To harvest it, farmers cut the flower buds
and collect the sap, which is a sweet, watery liquid. This
sap is then boiled until the moisture evaporates, leaving
behind thick syrup. Once cooled and dried, it turns into
golden-brown crystals.

The process is simple and doesn’t involve chemical
refining or bleaching, unlike white sugar. Coconut sugar
is unrefined and retains trace amounts of nutrients found
in the original sap. These include iron, potassium,
magnesium, zinc, and a fiber called inulin.

Inulin may help slow down glucose absorption, which can
lower blood sugar spikes. While coconut sugar has a
lower glycemic index than table sugar (estimated around
35 compared to 60–65), the ef ect is mild and should still
be consumed in moderation. Its mild caramel taste makes
it a popular substitute in recipes that call for white or
brown sugar.

Coconut sugar is also considered a more sustainable
product. Coconut palm trees can produce sap for decades
and require less water than sugarcane. This adds a layer
of environmental benefit, especially for those looking for
more eco-conscious options.