Sugar Beets

Associations

SUGAR BEETS grown in the region are processed locally into sugar and byproducts. Sugar is primarily used as a sweetener and is available in several crystal sizes and forms (grades) to suit end-product use. Other functions of sugar in food processing applications include bulking agent, preservative, texturizer, humectant, fermentation substrate, and browning and decorative agents. The main by-products of sugar production are molasses and beet pulp. Beet molasses is too bitter for kitchen use but is valuable in the manufacture of yeast, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Beet pulp is dried and formed into pellets for use as a highly nutritious livestock feed.