- Sugar-free labels do not always indicate a healthy food choice, especially with jaggery.
- A viral post on X highlighted the contradiction of "Sugarfree Jaggery" products.
- Jaggery is less processed than sugar but still raises blood glucose levels similarly.
When following a healthy diet, one of the most common ingredients people are advised to avoid is sugar. As a result, we find many products being marketed as being "sugarless." However, does this label automatically mean the food item is healthy? And what does "sugarless" truly mean to different people? Recently, a viral post on X has stirred up a debate on these topics, while also sparking some funny reactions. It all began when X user Madhu Menon shared, "Reminder that 'sugar-free' + jaggery is a contradiction." He attached a screenshot of a confectionery item listed on a food delivery app. It was named "Sugarfree Jaggery and Ragi Slice cake."
Also Read: Khand Vs Jaggery: What Nutritionists Want You To Know Before Making The Switch
X user Shantanu Goel reshared this post, recalling a related anecdote: "Reminded me of my neighbourhood sweets shop, which sells a 'sugarless' mithai. I asked him what he puts as the replacement for sugar. He was confused for a while and then said, 'Why would I put something else? I put sugar only.' Now I was confused, and I asked him then why he named the mithai as sugarless. He said it's because it has 'less sugar'."
Many people on X made jokes and shared funny reactions to the viral post. Some debated the true benefits of replacing sugar with jaggery. Check out some of the reactions below:
Is Jaggery Healthier Than Sugar?
Jaggery is often marketed as a healthier, more "natural" alternative to refined white sugar, but experts say the comparison is more nuanced. Both jaggery and sugar are forms of sucrose, and both ultimately raise blood glucose levels. However, jaggery undergoes far less processing, allowing it to retain small amounts of minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, and antioxidants. These micronutrients give jaggery a slight nutritional edge, but not enough to classify it as a "healthy food."
Remember: Jaggery can be a tastier, more traditional sweetener with trace minerals, but it is still sugar. Experts generally recommend consuming it sparingly. If you like the flavour of jaggery or prefer less-processed foods, it's an acceptable choice. It just won't provide a real health upgrade.
Also Read: Bulk Production Of Palm Jaggery In Tamil Nadu Impresses Viewers
