Pastel Quins: Icing Sugar

Icing sugar, also known as powdered sugar or confectioners' sugar, is granulated sugar that has been finely ground into a powder. It is typically made from sugar cane or sugar beets and often contains a small amount of cornstarch or another anti-caking agent to prevent clumping.

Manufacturers use icing sugar primarily as a sweetener and to create a smooth, fine texture in products. It is commonly found in icings, glazes, frostings, and confectionery, and is also used for dusting baked goods like cookies and cakes.

Icing sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. As a form of added sugar, it contributes to the overall sugar intake; the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars and at most 10 grams per meal. JECFA has evaluated sucrose (sugar) and set an acceptable daily intake as "not specified," meaning there is no need to set a numerical limit because the intake through food does not pose a health hazard. High consumption of added sugars is a public health concern, but this is a general dietary issue, not specific to icing sugar as an additive.