Ingredient · Updated

Coconut Sugar

Neutral in 10

Found in 10 productsSee all

What is Coconut Sugar?

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of the coconut palm tree. The sap is boiled and evaporated to produce granules similar in texture to brown sugar.

Coconut sugar is often used as a substitute for regular sugar due to its slightly lower glycemic index and trace amounts of minerals like zinc and iron. However, it is still a source of sugar and should be consumed in moderation. There is no scientific consensus that coconut sugar is significantly healthier than standard table sugar.

When you see coconut sugar on a label, it may imply a more natural product, but it is important to consider the overall sugar content and its contribution to daily intake.

Commonly found in: Baked goods, Beverages, Desserts, Cereals, Sauces

What to watch

  • Coconut sugar has a high sugar content, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes if consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

  • Contains trace minerals, though not in significant amounts to impact nutritional intake.
FDA

Coconut sugar is considered safe and has no specific restrictions. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS).

Research

There is limited research on coconut sugar's health benefits. While lower glycemic index is noted, it is not dramatically different from standard sugar.

Vegan

Coconut sugar is plant-derived and fits within a vegan diet.

Sources: Coconut Sugar

Scout's take

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

The case against

Excessive consumption can contribute to increased blood sugar levels.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins · echoed in 1 other analysis

Still a sugar, which can contribute to metabolic issues if consumed in excess.

from the analysis of Siete Mexican Chocolate Cookie - 4.5oz

The case for

Lower glycemic index than refined sugar, potentially aiding in better blood sugar control.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins

Provides trace minerals and has a lower glycemic impact compared to refined sugar.

from the analysis of Siete Mexican Chocolate Cookie - 4.5oz

Provides trace minerals like zinc and iron, unlike refined sugars.

from the analysis of Thrive Market Organic Whole-Grain Granola Toasted Vanilla Crunch

More from Scout's analyses

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of coconut palm trees. It has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar, which may be beneficial for blood sugar management. However, it is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of coconut palm flowers. It is less processed than refined sugar and retains some nutrients like iron and zinc. It has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar.

from the analysis of Siete Mexican Chocolate Cookie - 4.5oz

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. It is organic and minimally processed. However, it still contributes to overall sugar intake.

from the analysis of Thrive Market Organic Whole-Grain Granola Toasted Vanilla Crunch

All 10 products with Coconut Sugar

Where Coconut Sugar shows up

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