Assorted Nonpareils

Nonpareils are small, opaque, decorative sugar spheres, typically used as sprinkles. They are primarily made from sugar and corn starch, often coated with various food colorings to achieve bright, assorted hues.

Manufacturers add nonpareils to food products primarily for decorative purposes, enhancing visual appeal and providing a slight textural crunch. They are commonly found on candies, chocolates, cookies, cakes, and other baked goods.

Nonpareils are generally recognized as safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet, as their main components are sugar and starch. The health implications are primarily related to their sugar content, which, like all added sugars, should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy dietary pattern. Many nonpareils contain synthetic food colorings. The FDA announced in April 2025 a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3, which are often used in such decorative sprinkles.