Molasses is a byproduct of making sugar. It contains more vitamins and minerals than other sweeteners but is still high in sugar. It can form part of a balanced diet, but people should not rely on it for its nutritional content. Some people believe molasses is more beneficial to the body than sugar, but what does the research say? This article examines molasses, including its types, uses, nutrition, and benefits.

What is molasses?
Molasses is a thick syrup that people use as a sweetener. It is a byproduct of the sugar-making process, and it comes from crushed sugar cane or sugar beets. First, manufacturers crush sugar cane or sugar beets to extract the juice. They then boil down the juice to form sugar crystals. Molasses is the thick, brown syrup left over after they remove the crystals from the juice. Manufacturers repeat this process several times, producing different types of molasses each time.

Types
The different types of what is molasses vary in color, consistency, flavor, and sugar content.
1.Light molasses
This is the syrup that results from the first boiling. It has the lightest color and the sweetest taste. People commonly use it in baking.
2.Dark molasses
This is the syrup that results from the second boiling. It is thicker, darker, and less sweet. People can use it in baking, but it lends foods a distinct color and flavor.
3.Blackstrap molasses
This is the syrup that results from the third boiling. It is the thickest and darkest type of what is molasses and tends to have a bitter taste. Blackstrap molasses is also the most concentrated form, containing the most vitamins and minerals. For this reason, some sources say that it has the mostTrusted Source health benefits.
4.Unsulfured and sulfured molasses
Molasses labeled “sulfured” contains added sulfur dioxide, which acts as a preservative, preventing the molasses from spoiling. Sulfured varieties tend to be less sweet than other varieties.
5.Other types
Manufacturers can also make molasses from sorghum, pomegranates, carob, and dates.

Side effects
Molasses is safe for most people if they consume it in moderation. While molasses can be a good alternative to refined sugar, consuming too much of any added sugar can have adverse effects. The effects may be particularly harmful to people with diabetes.
Also, because people make molasses in a process called fermentation, it can cause digestive problems. Consuming large amounts may cause loose stools or diarrhea. People with irritable bowel syndrome or other forms of digestive discomfort may want to avoid this syrup.