Independent study to probe causes of sugarcane and juice quality decline

Listen to this article:

The Fiji Times on January 7, 2000 reported on the issue of cane sweetness – FT/FILE

Fiji Sugar Corporation is embarking on a comprehensive independent analytical study on the decline in sugarcane and primary juice quality for milling.

FSC is now looking for experienced sugarcane and sugar industry experts to conduct the comprehensive study on the decline in sugarcane and primary juice quality for milling.

The study aims to analyse the causes of this decline and propose practical strategies to improve quality, aligning with international standards.

“The study will focus on key sugarcane quality parameters—Brix, Pol, Purity, Pure Obtainable Cane Sugar (POCS), and Fibre—tracking their decline over the past 15 years at the field level,” states FSC.

“It will also investigate variances between field cane quality and primary juice quality at FSC’s mills, conducting a root cause analysis to identify discrepancies and quantify their impact on milling efficiency, raw sugar production, and sugar quality.”

The study will estimate financial losses to FSC due to these issues.

FSC states it will provide laboratory and field infrastructure for testing, along with all relevant current and historical data.

The consultant’s scope of work includes data analysis, field visits, and sample collection across FSC’s three mill areas, facilitated by the corporation.

Laboratory analysis will cover Pol, Brix, Fibre, POCS, and other parameters.

The consultant will review field practices, harvest, and transport logistics, engaging with growers, field staff, and mill technical teams as needed.

The final deliverable will be a detailed technical and business case report outlining findings, root causes, and practical recommendations.

A final report is expected to be completed in January 2026.