What is the main difference between processing of sugar beet versus sugar cane?

Sugar beets are harvested, washed, slicked, and soaked for the juice to be extracted from the plant material. The juice is cleaned to remove impurities and extra color in order for the production of sugar syrup. The syrup is then crystallized and spun in a centrifuge for liquid removal. Crystals are then dried and packaged for distribution.

On the other hand, sugar cane is harvested, crushed, soaked, and squeezed for the juice to be extracted and separated from the plant material. The juice is then boiled to thicken the syrup and crystallize. The crystals are spun in a centrifuge for liquid removal and for the production of raw sugar. The raw sugar is transported to a refinery for impurities to be removed. The raw sugar is melted to remove and filter the remaining impurities and for the production of sugar syrup. The syrup is then crystallized and dried. Sugar is then packaged for distribution.