Nonpareils

Nonpareils are tiny, hard spheres made from sugar, corn syrup, and starch. They are typically white but can be colored and flavored. The mixture is heated and then dropped into a cool liquid, forming small beads.

Nonpareils are primarily used for decoration in the food industry. Their small size and crunchy texture add visual appeal and a slight textural contrast to baked goods like cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and pastries. They are also sometimes found on candies and chocolates.

Nonpareils are made from common food ingredients like sugar and starch and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. They primarily contribute calories and sugar to the diet. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated similar sugar-based food components. There are no widespread health controversies associated with their typical consumption.