A Nutritional Breakdown: How Many Cals Are in Fun Size Skittles?

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a single fun-size pack of Skittles contains approximately 60 calories, derived almost entirely from sugar and carbohydrates. If you're curious about exactly how many cals are in fun size skittles and how that fits into a balanced diet, this guide is for you.

Quick Summary

Fun-size Skittles contain about 60 calories per pack, primarily from sugar, with minimal fat or protein. The key to enjoying these and other small treats is portion control and mindful consumption as part of an overall balanced diet.

Key Points

Specifics: A single fun-size pack of original Skittles contains approximately 60 calories.
Composition: The calories in Skittles come almost entirely from sugar and carbohydrates, offering minimal fat or protein.
Empty Calories: Skittles are a source of empty calories, meaning they provide energy without significant nutritional benefits.
Portion Control: The key to fitting small treats into a diet is maintaining proper portion control and enjoying them mindfully.
Healthier Swaps: Satisfy a sweet tooth with more nutrient-dense alternatives like fresh fruit, dark chocolate, or homemade treats.

The Calorie Count: A Precise Look

For those monitoring their calorie intake, knowing the specifics of small indulgences is crucial. A standard original fun-size pack of Skittles contains roughly 60 calories. This portion is designed for immediate gratification and is often consumed without a second thought. However, understanding what makes up these calories is key to making informed dietary decisions.

The Macronutrient Breakdown

When examining the nutritional profile of fun-size Skittles, a few key numbers stand out:

Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 14 grams, with 11 grams of that being sugar.
Total Fat: A minimal 0.5 grams.
Protein: Zero grams.

This composition reveals that Skittles are a source of "empty calories." They provide energy but offer no significant nutritional value in the form of vitamins, minerals, or protein. The high sugar content provides a quick energy burst, which is quickly followed by a crash as blood sugar levels drop.

How Fun-Size Candies Compare: A Nutritional Table

To put the 60-calorie count of fun-size Skittles into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other popular fun-size candies. This comparison highlights how different types of treats impact your caloric intake, even in small portions.


Fun-Size Candy	Approximate Calories	Approximate Fat (g)	Approximate Carbs (g)
Skittles Original	60	0.5	14
Reese's Peanut Butter Cup	110	6	Not specified
Peanut M&M's	90	4.5	10.5
3 Musketeers	63	2	11
Milky Way	80	3	12
Kit Kat	70	3.6	9
Twix	80	4	10

This table illustrates that while Skittles are lower in fat than many chocolate-based options, their calorie count is comparable to other small treats. The primary differentiator is the source of those calories: sugar for Skittles, and a mix of sugar and fat for the chocolate varieties.

The Role of Sugar and Other Ingredients

Skittles are made from a list of ingredients that includes sugar, corn syrup, and hydrogenated palm kernel oil. The sugar and corn syrup provide the sweetness and bulk of the calories, while the modified corn starch and tapioca dextrin contribute to the chewy texture. It's important to remember that these are all processed ingredients that offer no nutritional benefits.

Sugar and Corn Syrup: Refined sweeteners that can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes if consumed in excess.
Hydrogenated Oils: These are a source of saturated fats and are less healthy than unsaturated fats found in whole foods.
Food Colors: While contributing to the "rainbow" of flavors, these are artificial and have no nutritional purpose.

Smart Strategies for Incorporating Treats

Enjoying treats like fun-size Skittles doesn't have to derail a healthy diet. The key is to practice mindful eating and portion control. Here are some strategies:

The 90/10 Rule: Aim for 90% of your diet to consist of nutritious, whole foods, leaving 10% for treats and other indulgences.
Scheduled Treats: Instead of mindless snacking, plan when you'll enjoy a treat. This can prevent overindulging and makes the experience more satisfying.
Mindful Consumption: When you do have a fun-size pack, sit down and savor every piece slowly. Pay attention to the flavors and textures.
Buy Single-Serve Portions: Pre-packaged fun-size options, whether Skittles or another candy, are an easy way to enforce portion control.
Balanced Meals: Ensure your meals are balanced with lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to provide sustained energy and reduce cravings for sugary snacks.

Mindful Eating and Healthier Alternatives

For those with a sweet tooth looking for more nutritious options, there are plenty of satisfying alternatives. Swapping processed treats for these options can help reduce sugar intake while providing valuable nutrients.

Fresh Fruit: Nature's candy, full of fiber and vitamins. Grapes, berries, and watermelon are naturally sweet and hydrating.
Greek Yogurt with Berries: Combines protein with antioxidants and natural sweetness for a filling, nutrient-dense snack.
Dark Chocolate: A small piece of dark chocolate can satisfy a craving while providing antioxidants.
Homemade Treats: Prepare your own desserts with natural sweeteners like dates or honey to control the ingredients and sugar content.

For more ideas on how to include sweets responsibly in your diet, you can explore resources on mindful snacking and portion control.

Conclusion: The Final Word on Fun-Size Skittles

When asking how many cals are in fun size skittles, the answer is a straightforward 60 calories. However, the more important takeaway is the nutritional context behind that number. A fun-size pack is a small, sugary treat with minimal nutritional value. It can certainly be enjoyed occasionally, but a balanced approach to your overall diet is crucial. By practicing portion control and mindful eating, you can enjoy these treats without compromising your nutritional goals. Remember, no single food, in a small portion, can make or break your diet, but consistency in healthy choices is what truly matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

A fun-size pack of original Skittles contains approximately 11 grams of sugar.

No, fun-size Skittles are not considered a healthy snack. They offer minimal nutritional value and are primarily a source of sugar and empty calories.

Fun-size Skittles, with about 60 calories per pack, are lower in fat than many fun-size chocolate bars but higher in pure sugar. For example, a fun-size Milky Way has 80 calories but more fat.

Yes, it is possible to include fun-size candy in your diet, but moderation is key. Practicing portion control and mindful eating allows for occasional treats without derailing your diet goals.

Healthier alternatives include fresh or dried fruits, dark chocolate, homemade fruit smoothies, or Greek yogurt with berries.

The primary ingredients in Skittles are sugar and corn syrup, which contribute to their sweetness and caloric content.

For most people, one to two fun-size candies are a reasonable limit to fit into a balanced diet. However, this varies based on individual calorie goals and overall dietary patterns.