Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Refined White Sugar vegan?
Also known as: White Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Table Sugar, Sucrose
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It depends — Sugar from sugarcane is sometimes filtered and whitened using bone char, which is made from the charred bones of cattle.
01 · The basics
What is Refined White Sugar?
A common sweetener, also known as sucrose, derived from sugarcane or sugar beets. It has been processed to remove all molasses, resulting in fine white crystals.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
Sugar from sugarcane is sometimes filtered and whitened using bone char, which is made from the charred bones of cattle. Sugar derived from sugar beets or certified organic sugar does not use this method and is always vegan.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Organic cane sugar
Check Price on AmazonCoconut sugar
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Frequently asked
FAQ
How can I find vegan white sugar?
Look for sugar that is certified USDA Organic, as this standard prohibits the use of bone char. Alternatively, choose sugar explicitly labeled as 'vegan' or made from sugar beets.
Is Domino Sugar vegan?
Domino Sugar has confirmed that its refined white and brown sugars are processed using bone char, so they are not considered vegan. However, their certified organic and unrefined Demerara sugars are produced without it.
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