The Smarties Identity Crisis: American vs. International Versions
For consumers, the name "Smarties" can be confusing because two entirely different candies are sold under this brand name in different parts of the world. The American version is a roll of small, chalky dextrose tablets, which in Canada is known as "Rockets". The international version, popular in Canada, the UK, Europe, and Australia, consists of chocolate spheres covered in a hard candy shell. This distinction is critical to answering the question about artificial dyes.
American Smarties (Smarties Candy Company)
The American Smarties Candy Company has been producing its iconic roll of tablet candy since 1949. This product is known for its sweet, tangy flavor and comes in six colors: white, yellow, pink, orange, green, and purple. The ingredients list for original Smarties clearly includes artificial colors, specifically:
- Red 40 Lake
- Yellow 5 Lake
- Yellow 6 Lake
- Blue 2 Lake
These artificial dyes give American Smarties their signature bright, consistent colors. It is important to note that the American version is vegan, gluten-free, and free of the nine major food allergens, which is why it's a popular treat for parties and school events with allergy concerns.
International Smarties (Nestlé)
In contrast, the Nestlé brand of Smarties, the chocolate-centered variety sold in Canada, the UK, and other markets, transitioned away from artificial ingredients over a decade ago. As early as 2005, Nestlé announced a shift to no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in their products. This change was a direct response to growing consumer demand for more natural ingredients and a move towards greater transparency in food production.
To achieve their vibrant colors, Nestlé now uses natural colorants derived from plant and food extracts. The ingredients list for Nestlé Smarties features sources such as:
- Beetroot Red
- Carotene
- Curcumin (from turmeric)
- Spirulina Concentrate
- Vegetable Concentrates (safflower, radish)
This makes the international version of Smarties free from synthetic dyes. However, since the chocolate contains milk solids and the shell contains wheat flour, this version is not suitable for vegans or those with gluten intolerance.
Ingredients: American Smarties vs. International Smarties
Understanding the ingredient differences is key to knowing what you're buying. The following table provides a quick comparison:
| Feature | American Smarties (Smarties Candy Co.) | International Smarties (Nestlé) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredient | Dextrose (compressed sugar tablet) | Milk chocolate |
| Colors | Artificial (Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, etc.) | Natural (Beetroot Red, Spirulina, etc.) |
| Artificial Flavors | Yes | No |
| Allergens | Free from top 9 allergens | Contains milk and wheat |
| Vegan Status | Yes | No |
| Form | Rolls of chalky, stackable tablets | Chocolate spheres in a hard shell |
Why the Regional Differences in Smarties Candy?
This dual-identity of Smarties can be traced back to separate company histories and trademarks. The American Smarties Candy Company was founded in 1949 by the Dee family in New Jersey. The international Nestlé Smarties originated from Rowntree's in the UK in 1937 and later came under the Nestlé brand. Because these companies operate in different regions and developed their products independently, they ended up with different ingredients and recipes. The different regulatory environments and consumer preferences across the globe also contributed to the ingredient divergence, particularly concerning the use of artificial additives.
The History of Dye in International Smarties
For years, the international chocolate-coated Smarties did contain artificial colorings. However, in 2005, Nestlé announced the move to remove artificial colors and flavors entirely from its Rowntree's and Smarties brands. This famously led to the temporary discontinuation of the blue Smartie, as the company initially struggled to find a natural blue colorant. Eventually, a color derived from Spirulina was developed, allowing the blue candy to be reintroduced. This shift cemented the international version's status as free from synthetic dyes.
What to Look for on the Label
To avoid confusion, consumers should always check the product packaging. The easiest way to determine if your Smarties candy has dye is to:
- Read the Ingredients List: The back of the package will explicitly list all ingredients, including colorings. Look for specific dye names like "Red 40" or natural sources like "Spirulina Extract."
- Check the Manufacturer: Look for either "Smarties Candy Company" (USA) or "Nestlé" (Canada/UK/etc.).
- Note the Product Type: A roll of tablets will be the American version with artificial dye, while a pack of chocolate-coated spheres will be the international version with natural colorants.
- Identify the Country of Origin: The product packaging often lists where the candy was made.
Conclusion
In summary, the presence of dye in Smarties is entirely dependent on the product's origin. The American tablet candy contains artificial dyes, while the chocolate-coated version sold in Canada, the UK, and other international markets uses only natural colorings. This regional difference, stemming from separate company histories and consumer demand for natural ingredients, highlights the importance of checking labels. For those concerned about artificial dyes, the international Nestlé Smarties offer a safe alternative, while American Smarties contain several synthetic colorings.
For more information on the American product's ingredients and allergen status, visit the official Smarties website source website.
