Cane sugar

Get ready to taste the sweetness of cane sugar!
We’re going to take a journey through the history of cane sugar, from its origins to the emotions it arouses and its delicious uses in cooking.

History of cane sugar

Sugar cane was introduced to Guadeloupe in the 17th century. Homeowners grow sugar cane to produce sugar, alcohol (rum) and molasses. Sugar production became a mainstay of the island’s economy, with the rise of sugar plantations in the 18th century. Guadeloupe became one of Europe’s leading sugar producers, but the industry was based on a brutal slave system. After the abolition of slavery in 1848, sugar production faced challenges linked to labor shortages, leading to economic and social transformations.

In the 19th century, plantations modernized with the introduction of new processing techniques, but production remained dependent on wage labor, particularly from India. In the 20th century, Guadeloupe faced competition from foreign producers, and the sugar industry began to concentrate in large sugar mills. However, global competition and European agricultural reforms led to a gradual decline in cane sugar production.

30 %

increase in cane sugar production over the past 35 years.

65 %

of the world’s
sugar production comes from
sugarcane.

world producer – Brazil
Representing a quarter
of world production

0 e

European territory
producer of cane sugar
(Guadeloupe)

The cane,
symbol of Guadeloupe

Cane sugar is the very essence of our culture, just as essential as rum and flamboyant madras. Each grain carries with it the history of our land, our know-how and our work.It embodies the richness of our heritage and the pride of our identity.

GARDEL makes Guadeloupe known around the world, with a growing share of exports. From the West Indies to Europe, GARDEL holds high the banner of excellence.

Our Jarry silo, located in Baie-Mahault, is the last stop for our customers in mainland France and beyond.

The GARDEL Quality Charter

We owe a debt of gratitude to the consumers who put their trust in us: our sugar is 100% Guadeloupe cane, and our standards are high. GARDEL is committed to guaranteeing :

A consistent grain size for a unique texture and flavor.

Carefully controlled humidity levels for optimal freshness and flavor retention.

A rich, blonde and golden color, perfectly mastered, without impurities or additives.

Strict quality control to guarantee food safety and rigorous compliance with our specifications.

Distinct, caramel-like flavor from natural cane molasses.

Consistent quality in each batch, guaranteeing a unique signature recognized and appreciated by our consumers.

Cane sugar comes from the sugar cane plant. There’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.