Molasses

Molasses (CAS 68476-78-8) is the dark, viscous byproduct of cane sugar refining. Also marketed as treacle in confectionery and baking contexts.

Where is Molasses used?

• Food manufacturing: deep, caramel-bitter flavor in baked goods, sauces, marinades, gingerbread and licorice; also used in chocolate making, biscuit making and prepared dishes.
• Animal feed: palatability enhancer, energy source, binder of dry feed components for cattle, poultry and swine; when mixed with dry feeds it reduces dust formation, lowering the risk of respiratory problems in animals.
• Fermentation: cost-effective carbon source for ethanol, baker's yeast, citric acid and amino acids
• Tobacco processing uses it as a casing ingredient to control moisture retention and modify flavor.
• Binder in the production of mineral supplement blocks or lick stones.
• Combined with refined white sugar at about 5% to produce brown sugar.

Good to know: Blackstrap molasses, the lowest-purity fraction with the highest mineral content, is traded separately for fermentation and feed markets. Brix content and sulfur levels are key quality parameters buyers use to evaluate suitability.

Formulation notes

• In animal feed, the most suitable way to use it is mixing with dried pulp at a rate of 30-60% based on dry pulp.
• Generally recommended at 5-10% of the total ration for most animals.
• Cane molasses is preferred for human consumption, while beet molasses is typically used in animal feed due to its bitter taste.

Typical specification

• Typically contains about 50% sugar, 20% water, and 30% non-sugar substances.
• At about 20°C, the viscosity of feed molasses is between about 3,500 and 20,000 mPa·s (centipoise), depending on the batch.
• Three types exist: light, dark or medium, and blackstrap, each can be sulfured or unsulfured.
• Density of 1.4 kg/L.
• USDA sugarcane molasses grades are defined by requirements for Brix, sugar, ash, and sulfites in Table I of the standard.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Unprotected steel can rust superficially due to the hygroscopic molasses and possible acid residues; usual container materials like concrete or steel are sufficient if protected against corrosion.
• Store in a clean, ventilated, and temperate place, away from direct light.
• Store in a cool, dry, and dark place; when any mold begins to form, the molasses cannot be used.
• Sold in bulk in tanks or 1,000 L IBC containers.

Frequently asked questions about Molasses

How does beet molasses differ from cane molasses for fermentation?

Beet molasses contains more nitrogenous compounds such as betaines than cane molasses, which is relevant for some fermentation processes.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.