Is Icing sugar Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Icing sugar may contain gluten depending on the anti-caking agent used.
Icing sugar is powdered white sugar. Most icing sugar is gluten free, but some brands use wheat starch or other anti-caking agents that may contain gluten.

Coeliac Disease

Check the brand. Most Australian icing sugar uses cornstarch, but verify the label.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance.

Why Does Icing sugar Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Gluten comes from anti-caking agents. Cornstarch-based icing sugar is safe; wheat starch-based is not.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires labelling. Most Australian icing sugar is safe, but always check.

United States (FDA)

FDA labelling. Most US powdered sugar is safe, but always check.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g ยท Typical serve: 100 g (powdered/confectioners sugar)
Energy1632 kJ / 390 kcal
Protein0.0g
Fat, total0.0g
Saturated fat0.0g
Carbohydrate99.8g
Sugars97.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium1mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

What to Watch For

Wheat starch in anti-caking agents. Some brands use cellulose or other additives.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Powdered sugar (check), white sugar, honey, maple syrup.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Icing sugar gluten free?

Icing sugar is powdered white sugar. Most icing sugar is gluten free, but some brands use wheat starch or other anti-caking agents that may contain gluten.

Can coeliacs eat icing sugar?

Check the brand. Most Australian icing sugar uses cornstarch, but verify the label.

Related Foods in Baking Ingredients

Plain flour (wheat) Self-raising flour Bread flour Almond flour or meal Rice flour Coconut flour Tapioca starch or flour Potato starch

More from RefDat

Need to convert recipe measurements for gluten-free baking? RefDat cooking converters cover cups to grams, tablespoons to millilitres, and more. For oven adjustments see the temperature converter. Looking for kitchen gear that handles gluten-free cooking? See RefDat's Australian reviews of stand mixers for coeliac-friendly options.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ allergen labelling, ingredient analysis

Last reviewed: May 2026