Band 8.0 — Process: Producing Sugar from Sugar Cane

The diagram illustrates the sequence of steps through which raw sugar cane is converted into packaged sugar, beginning in the fields and concluding at the factory.

Overall, this is a linear, man-made process comprising seven distinct stages. The two defining features are that human intervention drives every step and that the material is progressively transformed from a plant into a liquid and finally into solid crystals.

The process commences with the harvesting of mature cane, which is then fed through heavy rollers that crush the stalks so that their juice can be extracted. The raw juice obtained in this way is subsequently treated with lime, a step which removes impurities and yields a clear liquid ready for the next phase.

In the later stages, the purified juice is boiled until it thickens into a concentrated syrup. This syrup is then spun rapidly in a centrifuge, whereby the sugar crystals are separated from the residual liquid. Finally, the moist crystals are dried and packed, at which point the finished product is ready to be dispatched for sale.