If you’re looking for a finer topping
You want to sprinkle aniseed sprinkles over a rusk or cupcake, but would prefer a finely crushed texture to whole, crunchy sprinkles.
Which option is right for you?
If you want to serve small portions
You’re preparing treats for a group of children and want to decide in advance how much topping to add to each one. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends small portions for children’s party treats.
If you want to add colour to your treats
You’re looking for a colourful topping that stands out on cupcakes or rusks, and you’re happy with the crunchy texture of whole sprinkles.
What should you look for when choosing?
Crushed aniseed sprinkles
Choose this type: if you want a finer topping and would rather avoid the texture of whole sprinkles.
Bear in mind: crushed doesn’t automatically mean the topping is suitable for a child who has difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Whole coloured aniseed sprinkles
Choose this type: if you want a clearly visible, crunchy decoration on your treats.
Bear in mind: the whole texture means you’ll need to consider how the children at the party will eat the treats.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Check whether the sprinkles are whole or crushed. Consider whether the texture is right for the children who will be eating them. | If a child finds crunchy toppings difficult, don’t rely on the word ‘mini’ alone. For around 39% of consumers, finding a suitable texture would be the main consideration. |
| Portion | Check the pack size and decide how much topping to add to each treat; a pack is not an individual portion. | When you’re preparing treats for a group, you’ll want to measure out the amount for each child in advance. A small, manageable portion would be the priority for around 38% of consumers. |
| Colour and use | Check the colour and whether the sprinkles are suitable for the treat you want to use them on. | For decorated cupcakes or rusks, you’ll want the topping to be visible, even if you only use a little. Around 23% of consumers are expected to choose mainly based on appearance. |
Common mistakes
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Assuming ‘mini’ means a small portion
The name or pack size doesn’t determine how many sprinkles end up on each treat.
Check the product type and pack size, then measure out the topping for each treat yourself.
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Assuming crushed sprinkles are suitable for every child
Crushed sprinkles have a different texture from whole ones, but that alone doesn’t tell you whether they’re suitable for a child with chewing or swallowing difficulties. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises taking care with sweets for children because of the risk of choking.
Supervise children while they’re eating and consider what’s right for each child. If a child has swallowing difficulties, don’t make your choice based solely on the product type.
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Checking the ingredients only after you buy
Wheat and gluten are listed for the aniseed sprinkle varieties described here. The product information for the pink Joybuy variety lists 79 g of sugars per 100 g.
Read the current label for the variety you’ve chosen and ask about the children’s allergies or dietary requirements in advance. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends checking this before serving party treats to children.
A relevant brand to consider
De Ruijter
Jumbo lists De Ruijter Crushed Aniseed Sprinkles in a 270 g pack; PLUS lists pink and white whole sprinkles in a 330 g pack. For a children’s party, the main difference to consider is the texture and how you serve them.
- You can choose between a crushed type and whole coloured sprinkles.
- Check the current ingredients and allergen information for each variety; the texture alone doesn’t determine whether it’s suitable for every child.
Aniseed sprinkles for a measured topping
These pink sprinkles are an option if you want to add colour to cupcakes or other baked treats. Measure out the topping for each treat yourself, and check the product type before buying if you’re specifically looking for whole or crushed sprinkles.
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De Ruijter Pink Muisjes 330 g
A pink topping for cupcakes or other baked treats, with an amount you can measure out for each one.
The pack contains 330 g. According to the Joybuy product information, this variety contains 79 g of sugars per 100 g and lists wheat and gluten; check the current label.
Before buying, check that the product type has the texture you’re looking for.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put out a bowl of whole sprinkles at a children’s party?
Adding a pre-measured amount to each treat gives you more control over portions than putting out a bowl for children to help themselves. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises taking care with sweets for children because of the risk of choking. Supervise them and consider whether the texture is suitable for the children at the party.
Are crushed aniseed sprinkles the same as mini sprinkles?
No. Jumbo describes crushed aniseed sprinkles as crushed, sugar-coated aniseed seeds. The term refers to the texture, not necessarily to a small pack or an individual portion. A finer texture also doesn’t guarantee that the topping is suitable for every child.
What should I check for children with an allergy?
Read the current label for the exact variety you plan to serve. Wheat and gluten are listed for the aniseed sprinkle varieties described here. Also ask about guests’ allergies and dietary requirements in advance, as the Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends for children’s party treats.