A: Decorating with glitters, powders and dust is a popular way to add some sparkle to cakes, cookies and cake pops. Some products promoted for food decorating contain non-edible or toxic ingredients and have caused illnesses. Therefore, in 2018 the Minnesota Department of Agriculture advises bakers to avoid use of non-edible decorative products.
When choosing decorations:
- Read labels. If it is edible, a list of ingredients is required.
- Look for "edible" on the label.
- Non-toxic does not mean edible.
- Don't use products labeled "for decorative purposes only".
- If the product does not have an ingredients list, don't use it.
- If you use non-edible decorations or toppers, tell your customers to remove before eating.
- Create your own glitter using gelatin and edible luster dusts or powdered food colors.
