Quick answer: Sieving separates coconut sugar into the right granule size and removes lumps and unwanted particles. Foreign matter control is the wider set of steps that keeps anything that is not sugar out of the product, such as fibres, specks or metal fragments. Common tools include sieves, magnets, visual inspection and clean handling. Together they help deliver a clean, consistent ingredient.
Key takeaways – Sieving gives an even granule size such as mesh 14 or mesh 50. – It also removes lumps and coarse particles. – Foreign matter control covers people, equipment and environment. – Regular sieve checks and records are good practice.
What does sieving do?
Coconut sugar is made in small batches by farmers, so granules can vary in size. Sieving passes the sugar through a mesh with defined openings. Granules that pass through meet the size target; oversize particles are separated. Mesh 14 has openings of about 1.41 mm and mesh 50 about 0.30 mm. Sieving gives buyers a predictable product that flows and dissolves as expected.
What counts as foreign matter?
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Natural | Plant fibres, burnt specks |
| Packaging | Threads, paper or plastic pieces |
| Environmental | Dust, insects, sand |
| Equipment | Metal fragments, rubber pieces |
| People | Hair, jewellery |
How is foreign matter controlled?
- Clean sap handling and straining at farm level.
- Inspection of incoming sugar at intake.
- Sieving to remove oversize particles and lumps.
- Magnets or metal detection where used, to catch ferrous metal.
- Hygiene rules for staff, such as hairnets and no jewellery.
- Covered equipment and clean, closed production areas.
- Final visual check before packing.
Why check sieves regularly?
A torn or worn sieve lets oversize particles through and can itself become a source of foreign matter. Good practice is to inspect sieves at the start and end of each shift, record the result and replace damaged screens immediately. If a damaged sieve is found, product made since the last good check may need to be re-sieved.
How is packing protected?
Packing is the last chance to keep the product clean. Bags should be clean and stored off the floor. Filling areas should be covered, and bag closures should be secure. Paper bags with a food-grade PE liner help protect sugar from moisture and dust during storage and transport.
What can buyers ask suppliers?
Buyers can ask which sieve sizes are used, how often sieves are checked, which foreign matter controls are in place, and how complaints are handled. They can also include foreign matter limits in the specification and inspect samples on arrival.
Where does IMC fit?
PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) has produced coconut sugar in Central Java since 2012 and exports to customers abroad, including the USA. IMC offers mesh 14 and mesh 50 granules packed in paper bags with a food-grade PE liner. Buyers can ask the IMC team about quality controls for their orders.
FAQ
What does mesh 14 or mesh 50 mean? The sieve size: about 1.41 mm and about 0.30 mm openings.
Why is sieving important? It gives even granules and removes lumps and coarse particles.
What is foreign matter? Anything in the product that is not sugar.
How often should sieves be checked? Good practice is at the start and end of each shift.
Looking for a reliable coconut sugar partner? Contact PT Integral Mulia Cipta (IMC Group) in Central Java, Indonesia: info@organic-coconut-sugar.com or WhatsApp +62 811 880 62273.
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