Today, the world is so awash in sugar - it is such a staple of the modern diet, associated with all that is cheap and unhealthy - that it's hard to believe things were once exactly the opposite. The West Indies were colonized in a world where sugar was seen as a scarce, luxurious, and profoundly health-giving substance.

In this quote, Tom Reiss highlights the stark contrast between how sugar is viewed today and how it was perceived in the past. He notes that in modern times, sugar is ubiquitous and seen as a staple of the modern diet, often linked to cheap and unhealthy foods. However, Reiss points out that this was not always the case. There was a time when sugar was regarded as a scarce, luxurious, and even health-giving substance, which was highly valued and not widely accessible.

Reiss draws attention to the historical context of sugar in the West Indies, a region that was colonized in a world where sugar was a rare commodity. In those days, sugar was considered a precious item that was not only expensive but also thought to have medicinal and restorative qualities. This perception contrasts sharply with its modern association with processed foods, leading to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and other diseases linked to high sugar consumption.

The mention of sugar as a luxurious substance also ties into the history of its production and trade, particularly in relation to colonialism. Sugar became a major driver of the economy in the West Indies, where the cultivation of sugarcane was reliant on enslaved labor. This historical context shows how sugar was once tied to wealth, power, and exploitation, marking a stark contrast to its modern-day role in affordable, mass-produced junk food.

Ultimately, Reiss’s quote underscores the dramatic shift in how sugar is perceived and consumed. It serves as a reminder of how food trends and perceptions evolve over time, and how what was once considered a luxury and health-boosting substance is now a major contributor to modern dietary issues. The quote invites reflection on the role of sugar in shaping both historical economies and contemporary health challenges.