Sweetheart Sprinkles: Icing Sugar

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

Manufacturers use icing sugar primarily as a sweetener and for its fine texture. It is commonly used in icings, glazes, and frostings, where it dissolves easily to create a smooth consistency. It is also used for dusting baked goods and in confectionery.

Icing sugar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. As a form of sugar, its consumption contributes to caloric intake. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. JECFA has evaluated sucrose and established an acceptable daily intake "not specified" (meaning no numerical limit is set, as it is a primary energy source). Excessive intake of added sugars is associated with dental cavities and can contribute to weight gain.