Does molasses need a hechsher?

Answer: No, if from cane sugar and unflavored (Star-K, cRc).

Reason: Molasses made from grapes is different.

Source:

• Star-K: its list of products that need no hechsher includes unflavored molasses from cane sugar, provided there are no additives and it is not a product of Israel.
• cRc: molasses is acceptable without a hechsher; molasses made from grapes requires certification.

Related questions:

• Does sugar need a hechsher? No (Star-K, cRc).
• Does maple syrup need a hechsher? Yes (cRc).

References: Star-K, “Approved Without A Hechsher” list · cRc (askcrc.org), “Molasses”