Sugar: A Bittersweet History, by Elizabeth Abbott
It’s almost ironic for me to be discussing the negative impact of sugar since I love to bake and I’m pastry chef by trade. However, after reading Elizabeth Abbott’s “Sugar: A Bittersweet History”, I’m reminded just how much sugar has changed our world and it’s not for the better.
Abbott examines the history of sugar from its origins when the New World gave rise to slavery, as millions of captured Africans were crammed into ships to make the dangerous voyage to Caribbean cane plantations. She demonstrates how sugar enriched Europe while denuding the African continent of its population and hindering its economic development.
Furthermore, Abbott sheds light on how sugar continues to be linked with violence, hate, and racism. How slavery in many ways still exists today through an abundance of cheap labor in developing nations for its mass production. She also gives insight into the environmental destruction of cane sugar production and the medical problems of over-consumption of sugar in our diets.
The book concludes by showcasing Cuba’s efforts to diversify its crops and adopt organic farming techniques. Perhaps, there is hope that our legacy with sugar can be changed for the better? As Abbott suggests, “We have to be willing to pay more for sugar, and to consume much less. I’d love to see sugary foods become treats rather than everyday items.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s the reason why I became a pastry chef to give people the pleasure of enjoying the finest of desserts rather than creating foods that are just high in sugar to be eaten all the time.
It’s up to us to decide the fate of sugar, as this book brilliantly demonstrates through well-researched and insightful information. You’ll never look at sugar the same way again.
Related posts:
- History of the Croissant
- Easter Sugar Cookies
- Vanillekipferl – Austrian Sugar Cookies
- Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze
Category: Literature
