Cane Molasses
Cane molasses is a thick, dark syrup obtained as a by‑product of sugar cane processing. It is used as a sweetener, fermentation feedstock, and ingredient in animal feed and food products.
Prices, specifications and international trade for cane molasses under HS 170310.
Cane Molasses Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Cane molasses is quoted in USD/t at IND. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
Explore cane molasses pricesCane Molasses Exports and Imports
Indonesia led reported cane molasses exports in 2025, at $92.4M.
Compare cane molasses exporting countriesCane Molasses Specifications and Quality
Cane molasses grading factors include Moisture content, Invert sugar content, and Purity (total solids).
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for cane molasses considers Moisture content, Invert sugar content, and Purity (total solids).
- Moisture content
The percentage of water in the molasses, typically measured on a dry basis and used to assess storage stability.
- Invert sugar content
The combined amount of glucose and fructose, expressed as a percentage of total solids, indicating sweetness and fermentability.
- Purity (total solids)
The proportion of total solids, expressed as a percentage of the product weight, reflecting the concentration of sugars.
- Color (absorbance)
Measured by spectrophotometric absorbance at a specified wavelength, indicating the degree of caramelisation and quality.
- Viscosity
The flow resistance of the molasses at a standard temperature, used to evaluate handling and processing characteristics.
Typical Specification Ranges
Cane molasses specifications record moisture, invert sugar, total solids. These are typical ranges, not guarantees for an individual lot.
| Moisture | 15–25 % w/w |
|---|---|
| Invert sugar | 70–80 % w/w (dry basis) |
| Total solids | 80–90 % w/w |
| Viscosity | 3,000–8,000 cP at 20 °C |
Common Defects
Recorded defects for cane molasses include Excessive moisture, High ash content, and Off‑flavour or fermentation.
- Excessive moisture
Moisture above the typical maximum can lead to microbial growth and reduced shelf life.
- High ash content
Elevated mineral residues indicate poor refining and can affect taste and processing.
- Off‑flavour or fermentation
Presence of undesirable odors or flavors caused by microbial activity or improper storage.
- Foreign matter
Inclusion of plant debris, sand, or other contaminants that compromise purity.
Certifications
Certifications documented for cane molasses include ISO 22000 and FAO/WHO Codex standards. Their applicability depends on the individual product and shipment.
- ISO 22000
Food safety management system certification applicable to molasses producers.
- FAO/WHO Codex standards
Compliance with Codex Alimentarius specifications for sugar products and related sweeteners.
Cane Molasses Facts and HS Code
Cane molasses belongs to sugar and sweeteners within softs and tropicals. Its customs classification covers HS 170310.
Cane Molasses HS Code
| Product type | Intermediate |
|---|---|
| Form | Concentrate |
| Position in the chain | By product |
| Category | Sugar and sweeteners — Softs and tropicals |
| HS codes | 170310 |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | IND |
Production & Handling
Processing steps for cane molasses include Sugarcane crushing to extract juice, Juice clarification to remove impurities, Evaporation of clarified juice to concentrate syrup.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Low |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical cane molasses packaging includes Bulk tanker and Bagged bulk.
- Bulk tanker
Transported in stainless‑steel or food‑grade carbon steel tankers equipped with heating coils to maintain fluidity.
- Bagged bulk
Packaged in multi‑ton flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) with inner liners to prevent leakage.
Uses & Risks
Cane molasses is used in Animal feed, Ethanol production, and Yeast manufacturing.
End Uses
- Animal feed
Molasses is blended into livestock rations as an energy source and palatable sweetener
- Ethanol production
Molasses serves as a fermentable substrate for industrial ethanol plants
- Yeast manufacturing
Molasses provides nutrients for yeast propagation in baker's and brewing industries
- Food and beverage applications
Molasses is used in bakery products, confectionery, sauces, and specialty drinks for flavor and color
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Livestock feed industry, Ethanol and biofuel industry, Yeast and fermentation industry, Food processing industry |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Microbial contamination (yeast, mold) Food safetyMedium Improper storage temperatures or prolonged exposure to moisture can allow growth of yeasts and molds, leading to spoilage and potential health hazards. | Maintain storage at temperatures below 20 °C, control humidity, and conduct regular microbiological testing. |
Adulteration with cheaper syrups FraudMedium Unscrupulous suppliers may blend molasses with lower‑cost corn or beet syrups, compromising product integrity and labeling compliance. | Require supplier certification, perform periodic sugar profile analysis (e.g., HPLC), and enforce strict contract specifications. |
Cane Molasses Questions
- What are the typical quality specifications for cane molasses?
- Cane molasses is a viscous syrup with a moisture content generally between 20 % and 30 % and a total solids content of 70 %–80 % expressed as Brix. It is usually graded by colour, density and invert sugar content, with higher‑grade molasses having a lighter colour, higher density (around 1.35 g/cm³) and greater invert sugar proportion.
- How is cane molasses packaged for transport?
- Cane molasses is most commonly shipped in bulk tanks or large containers, often in stainless‑steel or coated tanks that can be kept at temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C to maintain its fluidity. Smaller quantities may be packaged in food‑grade drums or intermediate bulk containers, each sealed to prevent contamination.
- What are the main uses of cane molasses in industry?
- Cane molasses is used as a sweetener and fermentable substrate in animal feed, bio‑ethanol production, and the manufacture of food products such as baked goods, sauces and confectionery. It also serves as a source of minerals and vitamins in livestock rations.