Cooking For Engineers

[Amherst]

Until today, I had been storing dark brown sugar in a stainless steel canister. Today I noticed several pin holes and corrosion on the bottom and some holes and corrosion on the sides. The canister is approx. 18 months old and one of a set. Others in the set are used to store various flours, regular cane sugar and powdered sugar. The canisters are all stored on the same wooden shelf and with the exception of the one used for the dark brown sugar, appear to be in good condition.
I'm puzzeled by the corrosion. It appears to have been caused by an acid like compound. Could sulfur dioxide possibly in the molasses used to make the dark brown sugar have combined with water and formed a mild acid? I had pieces of moist terracotta stuck into the sugar to keep it soft.
I've written the manufacturer but have not received a response as of yet.
Anyone with any ideas?

[Dilbert]

brown sugar may contain unrefined sulfur compounds - add some humidity I reckon sulfuric acid is possible . . .

[Amherst]

Dilbert,
Thank you for the reply. If I learn more, I will let you know.
Amherst, OH