Green Sprinkles: Icing Sugar
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What it is
Icing sugar, also known as powdered sugar or confectioners' sugar, is a finely ground form of granulated sugar (sucrose). It is produced by milling regular sugar crystals into a very fine powder, and often contains a small amount of an anti-caking agent, such as corn starch, to prevent clumping.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add icing sugar primarily as a sweetener and for its unique texture. Its fine consistency makes it ideal for icings, glazes, and frostings, where it dissolves smoothly and quickly. It is also used in confectionery and baked goods to provide sweetness and a delicate mouthfeel.
Health notes
Icing sugar is sucrose, which the FDA considers Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) as a food ingredient. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend consuming no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA has evaluated sucrose as a food ingredient and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). Excessive intake of added sugars, including icing sugar, is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.