New Study Reveals Health Benefits of Consuming Moderate Amounts of Sugar
April 15, 2026 • Al Jazeera
A Historical Legacy of Sugar Production Remains Visible Today
The global sugar industry has a complex history that spans centuries, with roots in slavery, exploitation, and environmental damage. A two-part series explores how sugar production became a driving force behind colonial empires and international trade.
From the 19th-century slave plantations to modern refineries in various countries, including the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Reunion, India, South Africa, and Europe, the series examines the impact of sugar production on labor practices, environmental degradation, and social structures. The investigation reveals how sugar fueled colonial expansion, contributed to international trade imbalances, and left lasting scars on communities.
The series incorporates testimony from individuals affected by sugar production, rare archival materials, expert insights, and on-the-ground reporting. It sheds light on the consequences of centuries-long sugar consumption and highlights efforts by communities to reclaim land, restore dignity, and establish fair production methods.
The investigation raises a significant question: what is the lasting impact of the global sugar industry? The series provides a comprehensive look at this complex issue, providing a factual account of its history and ongoing effects.
Source: Al Jazeera