Community Farmers Transform Local Economy & Health

Here in Honduras, it is common to hear a person of most any age say “Primero la salud” when asked what really matters in life. This literally means “Health comes first.” And if you are in a rural community “Salud” is also a greeting, an affirmation of well-being and the sincere wish that health is enjoyed by the entire community.

 For producers of panela granulada, a rich natural cane sugar, health is not only about people. “La salud” is a broader concept that implies that our earth needs enjoy care and attention if it can remain fertile and verdant.

 What do producers of panela granulada do that is different from the process used by large-scale white sugar production in Honduras?

• Families who produce panela granulada do not burn their fields to clear the area. They know that the crop will regenerate for as many as 20 years. They also do not burn tires (formerly a common practice). These farmers use the dried fiber from the cane stalk to fuel the oven. This means that the process is a circular one in which the entire plant is used without unnecessary chemical fuels or the destruction of trees.
• Panela granulada production involves a process of evaporation without the chain of refining and boiling that leads to a chemical process, used in white sugar production, that strips the cane of many natural nutrients.
• In addition to producing natural cane sugar, biproducts such a candy-like “borona,” a juice often combined with lemons and a molasses product ensure that the cane is fully used. Nothing goes to waste, an important principle in food security. And, desserts made with panela are homemade, not processed, and include fruit desserts, “arroz con leche,” and even oatmeal cookies!
• Another biproduct is the “cachaza” which is strained out of the cane juices in the evaporation process. This energy rich substance is used to nourish animals such as cattle and horses.
• While it is important that any sugar not be excessively consumed, researchers have pointed out that panela granulada contains micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and B-vitamins. Because it retains fiber, the process for digesting this product is slower and does not produce the same insulin spike as sugar. And, of course, consumers are advised to take into consideration their specific health conditions and always have a balanced diet.