Confetti Sugar

Confetti sugar is a decorative sugar product, typically made from sucrose (table sugar) that has been crystallized and often colored with various food dyes. It is characterized by its small, sparkling, and often brightly colored granules.

Manufacturers add confetti sugar primarily for visual appeal and texture, providing a crunchy, decorative topping. It is commonly used on baked goods like cookies, cakes, and cupcakes, as well as on candies, chocolates, and other desserts.

Confetti sugar is primarily sucrose, which the FDA recognizes as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). It often contains food colorings; in April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA has evaluated sucrose and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified) as it is a primary nutrient. JECFA has evaluated many food colorings and set acceptable daily intakes for them. Some studies suggest a link between artificial food colors and hyperactivity in some children, but evidence is mixed.