Belgium, a small country at the heart of Europe, is renowned for its culinary specialties and artisanal craftsmanship. Among these treasures, the sugar industry holds a special place. For centuries, Belgian sugar has been synonymous with quality and authenticity. In this article, we invite you to discover the fascinating history of sugar in Belgium and understand why this industry is a true national expertise that we can be proud of.
The Beginnings of the Sugar Industry in Belgium
The history of sugar in Belgium dates back several centuries. As early as the 14th century, large quantities of cane sugar were imported via the flourishing port of Bruges. Antwerp then took over in the 15th century, becoming a central hub for sugar trade. By 1550, the city already had fifteen refineries, many of which were located along the "Suikerrui," a street still named that today.
A key moment in the Belgian sugar history is the year 1806, when Napoleon established a continental blockade against the British, making it difficult to import cane sugar. This situation led to the rediscovery of the sugar properties of beetroot, a plant that would revolutionize the sugar industry in Belgium.
The Birth of the Tirlemont Refinery
The Tirlemont Refinery, founded in 1836, is one of the oldest and most respected sugar refineries in Belgium. Located in Tirlemont, this company has played a crucial role in the development of the Belgian sugar industry. From its inception, the Tirlemont Refinery has distinguished itself through innovation and commitment to quality.
In 1902, the Tirlemont Refinery introduced the Hard Lump, a sugar cube that quickly became a flagship product. This sugar, made from sugar beets, is a perfect example of Belgian expertise in sugar production. Even today, the Hard Lump is a staple in Belgian households.
The History of Graeffe Brown Sugar
Graeffe Brown Sugar is another iconic product of the Belgian sugar industry. Its history begins in 1818 with the birth of Karl Graeffe, who founded a small sugar factory in Brussels in 1858. Despite the mockery of his competitors, Graeffe persevered and succeeded in producing exceptionally high-quality sugar.
In 1953, the Graeffe company was acquired by the Tirlemont Refinery, but the name and recipe of Graeffe Brown Sugar were preserved. Today, this soft brown sugar is an essential ingredient in many Belgian recipes, bringing incomparable sweetness to every dish.
Candico :Candy Sugar and Candy Brown Sugar
Candico, another iconic brand, specializes in the production of candy sugar and candy brown sugar. Founded in Antwerp, Candico has a long history dating back to the first shipments of cane sugar arriving on the banks of the Scheldt in 1317. The brand is known for its commitment to fair trade and organic production, making it a pioneer in the Belgian sugar industry.
Candico's special sugars, made according to ancestral principles, are renowned for their rich taste and exceptional quality. Whether for sweetening hot drinks, preparing desserts, or caramelizing dishes, Candico products bring a unique and delicious touch to every recipe.
Beetroot Cultivation in Wallonia
The cultivation of sugar beet in Wallonia has played a crucial role in the development of the Belgian sugar industry. The climate and lands suitable for this cultivation have allowed the industry to thrive since the 1850s. The first industrial sugar factory was built in 1812 in Liège, marking the beginning of an era of growth for the sugar industry in Wallonia.
Between 1850 and 1880, many sugar factories emerged in Hainaut and
Hesbaye, making sugar beet an industrial crop of primary importance.
Despite the challenges posed by world wars and agricultural reforms,
sugar beet production continued to grow, reaching peaks in the 1970s and
1980s.
The Importance of the Sugar Industry in Belgium
The Belgian sugar industry is much more than just sugar production. It represents national expertise, tradition, and pride for the country. Belgian sugar products, such as Graeffe Brown Sugar, the Hard Lump from the Tirlemont Refinery, and Candico's special sugars, are symbols of quality and authenticity.
At BELices.be, we are proud to offer these iconic products to our customers. Our selection of Belgian sugar products is carefully chosen to reflect the best of our culinary heritage. Whether you are an individual looking for sweet delights or a professional wanting to offer quality products to your clients, BELices.be is your trusted partner.
Conclusion
The history of sugar in Belgium is a story of passion, innovation, and expertise. From the first imports of cane sugar in the 14th century to the modern production of beet sugar, the Belgian sugar industry has evolved and adapted to the challenges of time. Today, it continues to thrive, driven by iconic brands and exceptional quality products.
At BELices.be, we are honored to be part of this tradition and to share with you the sweet delights of our country. We invite you to explore our site and discover the richness of Belgian sugar products. Thank you for trusting us and sharing our passion for the delights of Belgium.