Nib Sugar
Also known as: pearl sugar
Nib sugar is sucrose (table sugar) in a coarse decorative form. Sucrose is GRAS, but added sugars are recognized by US Dietary Guidelines as a nutrient to limit (<10% of daily calories) due to associations with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental caries.
What it is
Coarse pearl or 'nib' sugar — large white sugar granules used for decorative topping (sucrose).
Decorative crunchy topping for pastries and breads; provides sweetness without melting fully when baked.
Why it's flagged
- Added sugar — limit per Dietary Guidelines
What regulators actually say
"Limit foods and beverages higher in added sugars... Less than 10 percent of calories per day from added sugars."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as sucrose under 21 CFR 184.1854.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as a conventional food ingredient; included in EU added sugars guidance.
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