Nonpareils Seeds
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What it is
Nonpareils are tiny, hard spheres made from sugar, corn syrup, and often colored with food dyes. They are typically produced by repeatedly dipping small sugar pellets into a sugar syrup and then coating them with powdered sugar. This process creates the characteristic small, bead-like appearance.
Why it's used
Nonpareils are primarily used as a decorative topping for baked goods and candies. Their bright colors and small size add visual appeal to cookies, cakes, cupcakes, and chocolates. They provide a slight crunch but are mostly for aesthetic purposes.
Health notes
Nonpareils are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. They are essentially a form of confectionery decoration made mostly from sugar. JECFA has evaluated sugar and its derivatives, and they are considered safe when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption of added sugars, however, is linked to health concerns like weight gain and dental issues.
Allergen info
Nonpareils are not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. They are also gluten-free.