Colored Sugar

Colored sugar is granulated sugar that has been coated with food coloring. The sugar itself is typically derived from sugarcane or sugar beets. The coloring is added to create visually appealing, often brightly colored, sugar crystals.

Manufacturers add colored sugar primarily for its visual appeal, acting as a decorative element. It is commonly found in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and cupcakes, as well as in candies and other confectionery items to add color and texture.

Colored sugar is essentially sugar with added color. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food colorings. Some artificial food colorings have been studied for potential links to hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and regulatory bodies like the FDA continue to permit their use. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many food colorings.