Potency of Natural Sweetener: Brown Sugar

This research about the substitutes of sugar cane that have the characteristics of a natural, valuable health, and have many functions for the preservation of nature. Brown sugar is a sugar substitute derived from palm plants, such as aren (Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merrill), coconut (Cocos nucivera), siwalan (Borassus flabellifer L.). This research aims to investigate the potential of resource, social and economic of brown sugar as a natural sweetener that can substitute sugar cane. The study shows that the aren trees which is the raw material of brown sugar is available in abundance, especially in mainland Southeast Asia, has high adaptability, it also serves as a forestry crop. Furthermore, brown sugar business can be done by people with low education, and in all age groups but predominantly in the range of productive age. Brown sugar is a natural sweetener because of its natural raw materials and the way of processing so valuable health. Economically, brown sugar has proven to be a source of livelihood and feasible to be developed. The implication of this study is about information to explore the potential of resources, social, and economics of brown sugar as a natural sweetener internationally.