But brown or raw sugar is just as nutritionally bereft—and has just as many calories—as white sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. "Organic" sugar is made from sugar cane or beets that are grown without chemical fertilizers or synthetic pesticides, which probably poses less of a threat to the environment. But it’s doubtful if that translates directly into significant health benefits. Honey and maple syrup may taste great but they contain few if any nutrients. Blackstrap molasses does have some calcium and iron, but also has a strong, distinctive flavor.