Refined sugar

cpc code 23520 covers the production and refining of sugar, a vital commodity in the global food and beverage industry. Refined sugar is a highly processed form of sucrose, extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets, and is a key ingredient in a wide range of consumer products. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader agricultural and manufacturing sectors, providing a versatile sweetener that is in high demand worldwide.

The production of refined sugar involves several key steps. First, the raw sugarcane or sugar beets are harvested and transported to a sugar mill or refinery. The crops are then washed, chopped, and subjected to a process called 'milling' or 'diffusion', which extracts the sugar-rich juice. This juice is then clarified, evaporated, and crystallized to produce raw sugar. The raw sugar is then further refined through processes like centrifugation, decolorization, and recrystallization to remove impurities and produce the pure, white, granulated sugar that is commonly found on store shelves.

The main inputs required for the refined sugar industry include sugarcane or sugar beets as the primary raw material, as well as various chemicals and processing equipment. Sugarcane and sugar beets are typically grown and harvested by agricultural producers, then transported to sugar mills and refineries. Other key inputs include water, energy sources, and specialized machinery for milling, evaporation, and crystallization. Additionally, the industry relies on a range of chemicals, such as lime, sulfur dioxide, and activated carbon, to aid in the clarification and purification processes.

The primary output of the refined sugar industry is, of course, refined white sugar. This product is then consumed by a wide range of other industries, including 311320 Chocolate and Confectionery Manufacturing from Cacao Beans, 311330 Confectionery Manufacturing from Purchased Chocolate, 311340 Non-Chocolate Confectionery Manufacturing, and 311811 Retail Bakeries, as well as the broader food and beverage manufacturing sector. Refined sugar is also a key ingredient in many household products, such as baked goods, preserves, and sweetened beverages.