Last updated: 17 August 2026
Quick answer: ICUMSA is the International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis. In wholesale trade, buyers almost always use “ICUMSA” as a colour grade: the number is a laboratory colour value. A lower number means a whiter, more highly refined crystal.
The scale exists so a mill in Thailand and a food plant in another country can specify the same product. A purchase contract that says “ICUMSA 45” is asking for a highly refined white sugar, not a brown or raw crystal.
ICUMSA 45 is the grade most often requested by beverage, confectionery, and industrial food manufacturers. It is among the whitest commercial cane sugars offered for export.
ICUMSA 100-150 is still refined sugar, but the colour value is higher, so the crystal is less brilliant white. Some specifications call for this range when a slightly warmer appearance is acceptable.
Higher numbers (for example 600-1,200 or 1,500-2,500) describe less fully refined or darker sugars used in industrial or specific process applications. They are not substitutes for ICUMSA 45 in a white-sugar recipe.
Colour is only one specification. Contracts should also cover moisture, grain size, packing, and documents. Colour grade does not by itself define polarity, ash, or microbiological limits.
When you request a quote from a Thai exporter, state the ICUMSA range, monthly or shipment volume, destination port, packaging, and Incoterm. That combination is what a mill or trader can price.
United Farmer and Industry Co LTD supplies wholesale refined sugar from Thailand across ICUMSA and related white and Thai sugar grades. Browse the catalogue or read our comparison of ICUMSA 45 and 100-150 if you are choosing a white grade for manufacturing.
Ready to specify a grade? Browse products or request a quote.