ICUMSA Sugar Grades Explained: 45, 100-150, VHP & Raw Cane Sugar

Complete guide to the ICUMSA sugar grading system for importers and food manufacturers. Covers ICUMSA 45, ICUMSA 100-150, and VHP Raw Cane Sugar — specifications and ideal applications for each grade. Published by MC INTERNATIONAL Export Team, April 2026.

What is the ICUMSA Color Scale?

ICUMSA (International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis) measures sugar whiteness and purity in IU (ICUMSA Units). Lower numbers = whiter, purer sugar. ICUMSA 45: brilliant white, ≥99.8% sucrose, ≤45 IU — premium for beverages, dairy, pharma. ICUMSA 100-150: standard refined white, ≥99.5% sucrose — cost-effective for food manufacturing. VHP Raw Cane: 600-1,200 IU, golden-brown — refinery feedstock, basis of Sugar No. 11 futures.

Which Grade Should You Buy?

ICUMSA 45 for beverages, dairy, pharmaceuticals, infant formula. ICUMSA 100-150 for bakery, confectionery, sauces — lower cost. VHP for refineries and commodity trading. MC INTERNATIONAL exports all three grades FOB Thailand with SGS certification. Contact: sales@mcispcoltd.com