A Look at the Primary Sweeteners in Sweetarts
To understand the sugar content in Sweetarts, one must look beyond the standard 'sugar' label. The main sweeteners are dextrose and maltodextrin, which play distinct roles in the candy's flavor and texture. These are not low-calorie sweeteners and contribute directly to the candy's carbohydrate and calorie count. While some might assume the tartness implies less sugar, it's actually the combination of these sugars with food acids, like malic acid, that creates the unique sensation.
The Role of Dextrose and Maltodextrin
- Dextrose: Dextrose is a simple sugar derived from corn starch. It is chemically identical to glucose, the primary sugar found in the bloodstream, and is quickly absorbed by the body for energy. This is one of the main components giving Sweetarts their core sweetness. The rapid absorption can lead to a quick spike in blood sugar, a factor especially relevant for individuals with diabetes.
- Maltodextrin: Often found in processed foods, maltodextrin is another type of sugar used in Sweetarts. It's a polysaccharide, meaning it's made of multiple glucose units linked together. It serves several purposes, including thickening agents and stabilizers. In Mini Chewy Sweetarts, maltodextrin and corn syrup work alongside dextrose to provide a softer, more pliable texture than the original compressed tablet.
Decoding Sweetarts Nutritional Information
The sugar content varies depending on the specific type of Sweetarts. Examining the nutritional labels reveals how much of this candy's weight is composed of sugar.
Original Sweetarts
A standard 1.8 oz roll of Original Sweetarts indicates a serving size of 13 pieces. For this serving:
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Total Sugars: 13g
- Added Sugars: 13g
This demonstrates that almost all the carbohydrates in Original Sweetarts come from sugar, with an EWG analysis suggesting the product is approximately 87% sugar by weight.
Mini Chewy Sweetarts
For a Mini Chewy Sweetarts product, the serving size is different, but the high sugar content remains consistent. For a 40-piece serving:
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Total Sugars: 23g
- Added Sugars: 23g
Like the original, Mini Chewy Sweetarts derive nearly all their carbohydrates from sugar, and they also contain other sugar-based ingredients like corn syrup.
Sweetarts vs. Other Popular Candies: A Sugar Comparison
To put the sugar content in perspective, let's compare Original Sweetarts to another popular candy, Smarties (U.S. version), which also come in a compressed tablet form. The table below outlines the sugar and calorie content per serving.
| Candy Type | Sugar Per Serving | Calories Per Serving | Serving Size | Primary Sweetener(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Sweetarts | 13g | 60 kcal | 13 pieces | Dextrose, Maltodextrin |
| U.S. Smarties | 6g (per 1 roll) | 25 kcal (per 1 roll) | 1 roll (9 tablets) | Dextrose, Citric Acid, Calcium Stearate |
This comparison highlights that while both are high-sugar candies, the serving size and composition can significantly affect the nutritional impact. Sweetarts contain more than double the sugar and calories per comparable serving size than Smarties.
The Health Context of Sugary Candy
Because Sweetarts are primarily made of sugar, they are classified as ultra-processed foods. Consuming too much added sugar has been linked to various health concerns, including an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. While enjoying candy in moderation is part of a balanced diet, it's important to be aware of the sugar content. The presence of food acids, which give Sweetarts their tartness, also contributes to tooth enamel erosion over time.
Conclusion: The Truth is Sweet, and Tart, and Sugary
In conclusion, the short and simple answer is yes, Sweetarts have sugar, and a lot of it. The sweetness comes primarily from dextrose and maltodextrin, which are corn-based sugars. The tangy kick is delivered by food acids, not a lack of sugar. While different varieties have slightly different formulas, all Sweetart products are undeniably high in sugar. Understanding these ingredients allows consumers to make informed choices about what they eat, recognizing that Sweetarts are a classic sweet treat meant for occasional indulgence rather than a regular snack.
For more detailed information on ingredients and nutritional facts directly from the manufacturer, visit the official Sweetarts website at sweetartscandy.com.
