UNREAL's Commitment to Real Ingredients
UNREAL's mission is to “unjunk” the world's favorite candy, which means creating products with real, high-quality ingredients and leaving out the artificial additives. This ethos directly addresses the core concern about artificial sweeteners. Instead of using lab-created sugar substitutes, UNREAL relies on alternative natural sweetening agents and simply uses less sugar overall to achieve its flavors. The company prides itself on transparency, with ingredient lists that are short, simple, and easy to understand. For instance, many of their dark chocolate products are made with just a few core ingredients, like dark chocolate, organic coconut, and organic cassava syrup.
No Artificial Sweeteners, Ever
The most direct answer to the question is found on UNREAL's own website: the brand never uses artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols in any of its products. This includes common sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium. Many competitors use these ingredients to cut calories or sugar content, but UNREAL opts for a different approach entirely. Their strategy is to offer a slightly less sweet but more authentically flavored product that uses real cane or coconut sugar.
Avoiding Sugar Alcohols
Sugar alcohols, such as erythritol or sorbitol, are often used in "sugar-free" candies and can cause digestive issues for some people. UNREAL explicitly states that its products do not contain sugar alcohols. This makes their candy a better alternative for those with sensitivities to these ingredients. Instead of relying on sugar alcohols, UNREAL focuses on fair trade cocoa and organic ingredients to provide a premium taste.
Natural Colors and Flavors
Beyond just sweeteners, UNREAL also avoids artificial dyes and flavors. The vibrant shells of their chocolate gems, for example, are colored using natural vegetable extracts like beet juice, turmeric, and spirulina. This aligns with their commitment to using only natural ingredients and offering a cleaner alternative to conventional candies. The result is a treat that is not only free from artificial sweeteners but is also made without other synthetic compounds often found in mass-market confections.
Comparison Table: UNREAL vs. Conventional Candy
| Feature | UNREAL Candy | Conventional Candy |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Cassava Syrup | High Fructose Corn Syrup, Artificial Sweeteners |
| Colors | Natural (e.g., beet juice, spirulina) | Artificial Dyes (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5) |
| Flavors | Natural Vanilla | Artificial Flavors |
| Sugar Alcohols | None | Often Included |
| Cocoa | Fair Trade Certified | Not Always Sourced Sustainably |
| GMOs | Non-GMO Project Verified | Can Contain GMO Ingredients |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does UNREAL candy achieve its sweet taste without artificial sweeteners?
UNREAL candy is sweetened with organic cane sugar, organic cassava syrup, or coconut sugar, and is formulated to have significantly less sugar than other popular brands.
Does UNREAL candy contain any sugar alcohols like erythritol or xylitol?
No, the company explicitly states that their products do not contain any sugar alcohols.
Are the colors in UNREAL candy artificial?
No, the vibrant colors in products like the chocolate gems are sourced from natural ingredients, including beet juice, spirulina extract, and turmeric.
Is UNREAL candy considered a "healthy" snack?
While it is a cleaner, more natural alternative to conventional candy with less sugar, it is still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Is all UNREAL candy vegan?
No, not all products are vegan. However, several of UNREAL's products are certified vegan, and the company offers both dark and milk chocolate options.
Does UNREAL use stevia as a sweetener?
No, UNREAL does not use stevia or any other artificial sweeteners. They use real cane sugar, just less of it.
Where can I find the ingredient list for UNREAL products?
Ingredient information for all UNREAL products can be found on their website, as well as on the product packaging.
Conclusion: The Truth Behind UNREAL Sweeteners
In summary, for consumers concerned about synthetic additives, the answer is clear: UNREAL candy does not have artificial sweeteners. The company was built on the principle of using real, simple, and transparent ingredients, which includes their choice of sweeteners. By using real sugar sources like organic cane sugar or cassava syrup in smaller quantities, they provide a satisfyingly sweet treat without relying on artificial alternatives or sugar alcohols. Additionally, their commitment extends to using natural colors and flavors, making it a conscientious choice for those seeking a less processed, cleaner candy experience. Their dedication to ethical sourcing through fair trade cocoa further solidifies their position as a brand focused on quality and integrity.
Why Choose UNREAL Over Conventional Candy?
For health-conscious candy lovers, the decision often comes down to weighing the pros and cons of different brands. Choosing UNREAL means opting for a product with no artificial anything, a transparent ingredient list, and a focus on sustainability. Unlike conventional candies that often contain a long list of unfamiliar ingredients and excessive sugar, UNREAL offers a return to simpler, higher-quality confections. Their use of real, naturally sourced ingredients and lower overall sugar content provides a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence for those who crave classics without the "junk".
Note: The nutritional information can vary slightly between products. Always check the packaging for specific details about the UNREAL candy you choose.
Visit the official UNREAL Snacks website for full product details.
Key Takeaways
- No Artificial Sweeteners: UNREAL candy uses no artificial sweeteners or synthetic sugar substitutes.
- No Sugar Alcohols: The brand explicitly avoids sugar alcohols like erythritol and sorbitol.
- Real Sugar: Sweetness comes from real cane or coconut sugar, and products contain significantly less sugar than competitors.
- Natural Ingredients: All ingredients are natural, including colors derived from vegetable extracts.
- Transparency: The company is transparent about its simple, non-GMO, and fair trade ingredients.
- Cleaner Alternative: UNREAL provides a cleaner, less processed version of classic candy favorites.
