Which one among the following is a major source of sugar ?

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is the primary global source of sugar, contributing approximately 78% to 80% of the total global sugar pool [c2][t7]. It is a tropical crop belonging to the bamboo family and serves as the prime source for sugar, gur, and khandsari, particularly in India [c2]. While sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) is the second most significant source, accounting for about 20% to 22% of world production, it is primarily grown in temperate regions like Europe and the USA [c1][t3]. Other plants like dates (Phoenix dactylifera) and watermelons contain natural sugars, but their commercial impact on global sugar production is negligible compared to sugarcane and sugar beet [t1][t7]. Sugarcane is highly efficient at converting solar energy into biomass, with its stalks containing about 10-15% sugar content by weight [t1][t2].

Sources

1. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Sugarcane (Saccharum spp) > p. 34
2. [2] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris) > p. 36