Healthier low GI sugar launched in NZ 

A type of sugar claimed to be the world's first "healthier choice" sugar has been launched in Auckland on Monday.

Chelsea Sugar says LoGiCane is the world's first all-natural low glycemic index (GI) cane sugar to be available in New Zealand.

Low GI foods are slower to digest, metabolise and absorb, providing longer lasting energy, says the company.

Chelsea Sugar say with rising obesity, the new sugar would provide a healthier choice without compromising on taste or texture and could have significant public health benefits.

Dr Alan Barclay of the Glycemic Index Foundation believes that replacing white refined sugar with a healthier low GI sugar alternative could have significant benefits for public health in New Zealand.

"Low GI foods including LoGiCane produce a less pronounced rise in blood glucose and insulin levels by virtue of their slower digestion and absorption rates," he says.

"A low GI diet will reduce blood glucose levels in people with diabetes (type 1 and type 2) and also has benefits for weight management."

The product is made from sugar cane grown in Queensland, it will be available in all major supermarkets around New Zealand from Monday.

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