How is blackstrap molasses different from lighter cane molasses?

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Sugarcane field — Sugarcane Field of sugarcane (*Saccharum officinarum*) in St. George Parish, Barbados.

The primary difference between blackstrap molasses and lighter cane molasses lies in the stage of the sugarcane manufacturing process at which they are extracted.1

Lighter Molasses: Obtained from the first extraction of sugar juice, this grade contains more sugar, tastes sweeter, and is lighter in color. It is commonly used in baking, candy-making, and the production of rum.1
Blackstrap Molasses: This is the product of the third and final extraction. It is a heavy, viscous, and dark-colored syrup from which all practically separable sugar has been removed. Because of its composition—roughly 55 percent sucrose and other sugars, 20 percent water, 15 percent organic nonsugars, and 10 percent ash—it is typically used for animal feed or in the industrial production of vinegar and citric acid.1

Separation of these grades is achieved through centrifuging, which isolates the syrup from the sugar crystals.1