A nanofiltration process for obtaining sucrose uses a feed syrup, such as
molasses, that comprises sucrose and no less than about 3% by weight
invert sugars (on a dry solids basis). The nanofiltration produces a
permeate and retentate. The nanofiltration permeate will comprise invert
sugars that have passed from the feed through the nanofiltration membrane,
and preferably will also comprise ash from the feed. The nanofiltration
retentate has a higher concentration of sucrose and a lower concentration
of invert sugars than the feed syrup. Sucrose can then be crystallized
from the nanofiltration retentate. The reduction of the invert content in
the syrup facilitates crystallization and thus enhances sucrose recovery.