Panela sugar
Panela is unrefined cane sugar from Colombia. Panela has been traditionally handmade for centuries by dehydrating raw sugarcane juice over low heat. Because it's made in such a simple way, it retains the flavourful and nutrient-rich molasses from sugarcane. The molasses in panela gives it its distinct flavour as well as some naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Origin: Our panela comes from Asoseynekun, an association of indigenous Arhuaco families in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia.
Flavour: lightly sweet molasses taste and warm, caramel undertones
Producer: Asoseynekun, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Born in the heart of the indigenous community of Jewrwa, the Asociación de Productores Indígenas Seynekun (Asoseynekun) is a legally recognized association of Arhuaco indigenous producer families, known for their traditional farming practices that conserve the environment. The Association supports Pueblo Bello, a municipality in the northern part of the Cesar department in Colombia, with its agricultural sector. Asoseynekun began to support the production of coffee and cocoa, but after a community analysis, they saw the potential for cultivating sugar cane. The association has been certified organic since 2008 and Fair Trade since 2009. Its products are environment-friendly, contribute to biodiversity preservation, and promote the socio-cultural development of indigenous communities.
The videos below tell the story of Asoseynekun and show how the panela is made.
Watch the video of Asoseynekun