Quins: Icing Sugar

Icing sugar, also known as powdered sugar or confectioners' sugar, is a very finely ground form of granulated sugar. It is typically made from sugar cane or sugar beets and often contains a small amount of an anti-caking agent, such as cornstarch, to prevent clumping.

Manufacturers add icing sugar primarily as a sweetener and to create smooth textures in frostings, glazes, and icings. It is also used for dusting baked goods like cookies and pastries, providing a delicate sweetness and appearance.

Icing sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is a form of added sugar, and the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams per meal. JECFA has evaluated sugars and set an acceptable daily intake 'not specified' (meaning no specific limit is deemed necessary based on current data). Excessive intake of added sugars is associated with various health concerns, but these are related to overall dietary patterns rather than the ingredient itself at typical intake levels.