It doesn't have to be a grinder. You can use a food processor as well. I've done that when I've run-out of powdered/icing sugar. Never tried with a blender, but you'd probably have to turn it upside down a few times as the heavier crystals would settle in the bottom. The food processor works well since 1 of the blades sets nearly at the bottom.no, not that i've ever heard. You couldlook out for fruit sugar but not common in most stores.
Edit:
correcting to say if you really want a North American substitute and have an extra coffee/spice grinder you are willing to clean. Just use granulated sugar.