Edible glitter, also known as disco dust, is a decorative food product used to add shimmer and sparkle to cakes, cupcakes, cookies, candy, fruit, drinks, and more. It comes in a powdered form and is available in a wide variety of colors. Edible glitter is popular for use in baking, cake decorating, mixology, and food presentation. When sprinkled on foods or drinks, it creates a fun, festive look. But behind the shimmer, what exactly is edible glitter made of? There are a few key ingredients that go into making edible glitter dust.
Mica Powder
The main ingredient in edible glitter is mica powder. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral that can be ground into a fine, shimmery powder. It has a flaky, crystalline structure that allows it to reflect light and create a sparkling effect. Food-grade mica powder is safe to consume and gives edible glitter its signature shimmer. It is what provides the base material for the glittery particles in edible glitter dust. The mica used in edible glitters is specifically sourced for food products and not industrial uses.
Colorants
To give edible glitter its vibrant colors, natural and artificial food colorants are added to the mica powder base. FD&C colors, fruit and vegetable juices, caramel colors, and powdered turmeric are some examples of colorants used to create the rainbow of edible glitter shades. Colorants approved for food use must pass safety regulations for ingredients. The combination of mica powder and colorants allows edible glitter dust to come in colors like red, blue, green, gold, silver, purple, and more.
Filler Powders
Some edible glitter products use additional filler powders besides mica. These can include cornstarch, arrowroot powder, potato starch, and tapioca flour. The filler powders help provide texture and absorbency. They allow the glitter to be smoothly mixed into recipes and liquids. The filler powders are natural starches that are commonplace in many other edible products.
Anti-Caking Agents
To prevent clumping, edible glitter dust contains anti-caking agents like silicon dioxide, calcium silicate, and tricalcium phosphate. These help keep the glitter from sticking together and allow it to flow freely. Anti-caking agents are safe food additives made from minerals. A small amount is used to improve the spreadability and shelf life of edible glitter.
Manufacturing Process
Edible glitter goes through a multi-step manufacturing process before it reaches the vibrant, shimmery finished product. Here is an overview of how it is made:
Sourcing Ingredients
The mica powder, colorants, fillers, and anti-caking agents that go into edible glitter are sourced from suppliers. Only ingredients specifically approved for food use are selected. The raw ingredients must meet food-grade specifications for quality and safety.
Measuring and Mixing
The ingredients are precisely measured out according to the glitter recipe. The mica powder makes up the bulk of the mixture. Smaller amounts of coloring and additives are mixed in. The ingredients are thoroughly blended together in industrial mixing machines to distribute the components evenly.
Mill Processing
The mixed ingredients go through a milling machine that pulverizes everything into a fine, shimmery powder. The milling ensures a consistent particle size distribution for maximum sparkle effect. It also uniformly incorporates the colorants throughout the powder for vibrant color.
Sifting and Shaking
Next, the glitter powder is sifted through fine screens to remove any large particles. It is also shaken in sieves to separate out clumps. This helps achieve a smooth, free-flowing consistency. The sifting and shaking may be repeated multiple times.
Packaging
The finished edible glitter dust is packaged into bottles, shaker jars, or small bags. It must be filled in a facility that follows food safety protocols. The packaging protects the glitter during shipment and keeps it fresh until use.
Labeling
The glitter containers are labeled with the product name, ingredients list, net weight, dosage instructions, and other details. Proper labeling is mandated for all food products. The listings ensure transparency about what is in the edible glitter.
Types of Edible Glitter
There are a few different forms of edible glitter dust available:
Fine Glitter
The most common type is a finely milled glitter dust with tiny particles that create maximal sparkle. The small size allows it to adhere well to smooth surfaces. Fine glitter works best for decorating cakes and cupcakes.
Coarse Glitter
Some edible glitters have slightly larger particles. The coarse glitter reflects more light for a really dramatic glittery effect. It adds nice texture and crunch when sprinkled on foods.
Vegan Glitter
Vegan edible glitter is made without any animal-derived ingredients. Instead of carmine and other insect-based colors, plant-based pigments are used. Vegan glitter meets dietary restrictions for vegans and vegetarians.
Luster Dust
Also called pearl dust, this type contains a higher percentage of mica powder and less colorants. Luster dust has a shinier, metallic finish compared to standard glitter. Popular shades are gold, silver, and pearl.
Petal Dust
This edible glitter alternative is made from ground rice paper rather than mica. The rice paper brings a delicate effect. Petal dust is dissolve-resistant for long lasting sparkle.
Nutrition Facts
Here is the general nutrition information for edible glitter dust according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) FoodData Central database:
Nutrition Facts | Per 1 tsp (0.7g) edible glitter |
---|---|
Calories | 0 |
Protein | 0 g |
Carbohydrates | 0 g |
Sugar | 0 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Fat | 0 g |
Sodium | 0 mg |
As shown, edible glitter has practically no calories, carbs, protein, fat, sugar, fiber, or sodium. The negligible nutritional value makes it a fun decorative topping that will not significantly affect nutrition. But be aware that any mix-ins like sugars or starches may alter the nutrition profile. The ingredients used can also impact the exact values.
Is Edible Glitter Safe to Eat?
Edible glitter is considered safe for consumption because it is formulated with ingredients approved for food use. The mica, colorants, fillers, and anti-caking agents that make up edible glitter meet FDA and food regulatory guidelines. As long as the product states it is edible glitter intended for food decoration, it is deemed safe to eat.
However, there are some potential health and safety factors to keep in mind:
– Edible glitters are not meant to be eaten in large amounts. They are made for minimal decoration, not as a major dietary component. Consuming more than a small sprinkle would not be advisable.
– Children under 3 years old should not consume any edible glitter. The small particles and inhalation risk make it a choking hazard for toddlers.
– Edible glitter can trigger allergies and intolerances to any ingredients like mica and colorants. Those with sensitivities should check the label.
– Some lower quality edible glitters may contain unapproved additives and colors. It is important to only use reputable food-grade products.
– Cosmetic grade glitters are not made with edible ingredients and should never be applied to food or eaten.
So in moderation and from a trusted source, edible glitter can add some whimsical style to foods and beverages without safety concerns. Just take care to enjoy its decorative flair sparingly.
Uses for Edible Glitter
Edible glitter dust opens up many creative possibilities for decorating food and drinks. Here are some of the most common uses:
Cakes and Cupcakes
Glitter is an eye-catching way to decorate frosting, fondant, and cupcake icing. It adds interest to basic cakes and makes elaborate designs really pop. Birthday cakes are a perfect canvas for edible glitter.
Cookies and Confections
Sprinkling glitter on cookies, brownies, cake pops, rice krispies treats, and other desserts creates fancy treats. Glitter works nicely on royal icing, buttercream, and chocolate.
Fruit Decorations
Fresh fruits like oranges, pineapple, kiwi, grapes, and strawberries can be accented with edible glitter designs. The sparkle contrasts nicely with the fruit’s natural colors.
Dried Fruits and Nuts
Nuts, coconut, and dried fruits take on a jewel-like shimmer when dusted with edible glitter. Great for holiday mixes, gift baskets, and party platters.
Chocolates
Solid chocolates, truffles, and candies gain extra elegance decorated with edible glitter. Shiny chocolate coatings help the glitter sparkle.
Yogurt, Pudding, and Mousse
Glitter swirled into creamy desserts like yogurt, chocolate mousse, and lemon curd adds fun flair to the presentation.
Ice cream and Popsicles
For magical unicorn vibes, edible glitter can go into ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and popsicles. It brings a whimsical touch to cool treats.
Beverages
Glitter accents on the rims or rims of glasses instantly dress up drinks. It can also be stirred into cocktails, mocktails, lemonades, and other clear beverages.
Candy Making
From rock candy to candy melts, edible glitter is made for candy crafting. Add sparkle to lollipops, gummies, chocolate bark, caramels, and more homemade treats.
Storing and Handling Edible Glitter
To maintain the beautiful shine and prevent spoilage of unused edible glitter, proper storage is important:
– Keep containers of edible glitter tightly sealed in a cool, dry location away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
– Shelf life depends on the exact product but can range from 1 to 2 years for unopened glitter.
– Once opened, edible glitter will last about 6 months if resealed well after each use.
– Do not mix old and new batches of edible glitter to avoid cross-contamination.
– Always use a clean, dry spoon to scoop out edible glitter to prevent clumping from moisture.
– For optimal sparkle, avoid getting edible glitter wet or exposing it to steam before use.
– Check for any changes in appearance or clumping before using glitter that has been open for a while.
With the right care, edible glitter can dazzle foods and drinks for months after opening. Keeping it tightly sealed and dry helps the shimmer last.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Edible glitter brings a fun pop of sparkle but may come with occasional hiccups. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
Clumping
Exposure to moisture or steam can cause edible glitter dust to clump up. Sift clumpy glitter through a fine mesh strainer to break up any chunks before use. Always use a clean, dry spoon when taking glitter from the container.
Bleeding Color
On moist foods, some colored glitters may bleed or stain the surface. Opt for luster dust or metallic glitter colors which resist color transfer. If using standard glitter, limit moisture exposure or choose lighter colors.
Uneven Coverage
For smooth, even coverage, apply edible glitter sparingly and tap off excess. Use a fine mesh sieve to dust very lightly. Avoid dumping on large amounts in one spot.
Loss of Shine
Too much moisture, heat, or direct contact with some foods can make edible glitter lose its shine. Use it at the last minute before serving for maximum sparkle.
Inhalation Risk
Take care not to inhale edible glitter dust. Do not blow directly onto a surface to disperse. Keep young children supervised when using glitter.
DIY Edible Glitter Recipes
Want to make edible glitter at home? Here are a couple easy, customizable DIY edible glitter recipes to try:
Basic Mica Glitter
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mica powder
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– Food coloring drops
Instructions:
1. Combine mica powder and cornstarch.
2. Add in food coloring a few drops at a time until desired color is reached.
3. Mix until uniform color is achieved.
4. Store in an airtight container away from humidity.
Natural Fruit Glitter
Ingredients:
– 1-2 cups freeze-dried fruit powder (strawberry, pineapple, banana etc)
– 1 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Process freeze-dried fruit pieces in a food processor or blender into a fine powder.
2. Mix powdered fruit, powdered sugar, and cornstarch.
3. Blend until fully combined and loose powder forms.
4. Store in an airtight container in a cool place.
Get creative with your own edible glitter combinations! Just be sure to use only food-safe ingredients.
Conclusion
Behind its magical shimmer, edible glitter is a blend of simple food-grade ingredients like mica powder, colorants, and anti-caking agents. With FDA approved components, it can add elegant sparkle to foods when used properly. Moderation is key, and keeping edible glitter away from moisture and little children is important. Beyond safety, edible glitter opens up many possibilities to decorate desserts and drinks with eye-catching whimsy. A dash of glitter can transform treats into stunning confections that shine.