LoGiCane is the brainchild of Australian scientists Dr Barry Kitchen and Dr David Kannar, who say it has the same taste and texture as regular white sugar, but a significantly lower GI.

Funding of $5.4 million dollars was provided by the Federal Government and the Queensland Government, plus investment from venture capitalists Inventages LLC and BioPacific Ventures, for the research and development of LoGiCane.

Developed in Mossman, Queensland, LoGiCane has the same physical functionality as sugar but with the added benefit of naturally occurring antioxidants and no chemical additives, artificial colours or preservatives.

"Traditional refining of raw sugar removes the majority of bio-active phytochemicals," Dr Kannar said.

"Retention of these phytochemicals in the sugar reduces the amount of glucose absorption."

LoGiCane has a GI of 50, based on independent testing by SUGIRS (Sydney University Glycemic Index Research Service).

Regular white sugar has a GI of 65 (average).

The glycemic index or GI ranks carbohydrates according to their effect on blood glucose.

"We have applied the science to effectively retain the best of what Mother Nature intended in the sugar," Dr Kannar said.

Certified by the Glycemic Index Foundation (GIF), LoGiCane will provide consumers with a healthier, low GI sugar choice.

It can be used in exactly the same way as regular sugar for baking, cooking and for sprinkling on cereal, making it easier for Australians to achieve a low GI diet.

Well-known GI advocate and expert in human nutrition, Professor Jennie Brand-Miller, University of Sydney, believes that replacing white refined sugar with a healthier ‘wholemeal’ sugar alternative could have significant benefits for public health.

"It is well recognised that low GI diets can improve diabetes management and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes," Professor Brand-Miller said.

"There is increasing evidence that a low GI diet helps to reduce hunger, prolong physical endurance and aid weight loss.

"The GI of the average Australian diet is too high and the GIF is working to reduce it.

"Sugar and sugar-containing products are among the top five contributors of glycemic carbohydrate in the Australian diet, so it is helpful for consumers to have a lower GI sugar choice."