Unreal was founded on the mission to 'unjunk' the world's favorite candies by replacing artificial, hard-to-pronounce ingredients with real, simple ones. A central part of this mission is the complete avoidance of artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, which can often leave an aftertaste and come with unwanted side effects. Instead, Unreal focuses on using less of the real thing to achieve its sweet flavor profile, allowing the natural richness of the chocolate and other components to shine. The brand's philosophy proves that delicious candy doesn't require a chemical-laden recipe.
Unreal's Sweetening Philosophy: Real Ingredients, Less Sugar
The core of Unreal's product development is a commitment to simplicity and quality. By using naturally derived, fair-trade ingredients and reducing the overall sugar content, they offer a taste that is satisfying without being excessively sweet. The sweeteners they choose are foundational to this philosophy, avoiding synthetic versions entirely. For example, their Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars boast just three simple ingredients: organic coconut, organic cassava syrup, and dark chocolate. This minimalist approach ensures that every ingredient serves a purpose and is recognized by the consumer.
The Sweeteners Unreal Actually Uses
While artificial sweeteners are off the table, Unreal uses several natural, real-sugar ingredients to provide sweetness across its product line. These include:
- Organic Cane Sugar: A straightforward, plant-based sugar used in many products for a classic sweet taste.
- Organic Cassava Syrup: A syrup derived from the cassava plant, which is used to bind and sweeten products like the Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars.
- Organic Blue Agave Inulin: Included in certain products, such as their nut-butter cups and gems, as a source of prebiotic fiber. The brand notes that those with an inulin sensitivity should avoid these specific products.
How Unreal Stacks Up Against Traditional Candy
To understand the difference, a comparison highlights Unreal's cleaner approach to ingredients.
| Feature | Unreal Brands Candy | Traditional Competitor (e.g., M&Ms) |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetener Type | Real sugars (Organic Cane Sugar, Cassava Syrup) | Refined sugars, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup |
| Artificial Sweeteners | None | Can contain various artificial additives |
| Sugar Alcohols | None | Some 'diet' versions may contain them |
| Colors | Natural, plant-based dyes (beet juice, spirulina) | Artificial food colorings (Yellow 5, Red 40, etc.) |
| Other Ingredients | Non-GMO, Fair Trade, simple ingredients | Often contain GMOs, artificial flavors, and preservatives |
| Overall Sugar | Significantly less than competitors | Often high in added sugars |
Beyond Sweeteners: Other "Unjunked" Features
Unreal's commitment to "unjunking" extends far beyond just sweeteners. Their dedication to better-for-you ingredients is evident in multiple product features:
- Naturally colored shells using ingredients like spirulina and beets.
- Fair trade certified cacao, promoting ethical sourcing practices.
- Certified non-GMO ingredients.
- Many products are certified vegan and gluten-free.
- The absence of soy ingredients in most products.
Ingredient Transparency and Dietary Considerations
The straightforward and short ingredient list on Unreal's packaging is a major appeal for health-conscious consumers. Unlike some "healthy" alternatives that replace sugar with complicated chemical compounds, Unreal's approach is about returning to basics. This transparency allows consumers to easily understand what they are eating and make informed choices based on their dietary needs. For example, for individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities, Unreal provides an easier option to navigate compared to the complex lists of traditional candy.
Not a Health Food, But a "Better For You" Treat
It's important to clarify that while Unreal candy is a "cleaner" option, it is still candy. The company uses real sugar, and as with any treat, moderation is key. The goal is not to be a replacement for fruits and vegetables but rather to provide a less-processed, higher-quality indulgence for satisfying a sweet tooth. The reduction in sugar and removal of artificial ingredients make it a "better-for-you" alternative without sacrificing the classic taste of childhood favorites.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Unreal's Sweeteners
In summary, Unreal does not have artificial sweeteners. The company has built its brand around creating nostalgic candy with a modern, cleaner twist, focusing on real, simple ingredients and significantly less sugar. Instead of relying on artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, they use natural options like organic cane sugar and cassava syrup to deliver a satisfying sweetness. For anyone looking to enjoy a classic candy experience without the artificial additives, Unreal stands as a delicious and transparent choice. For more on their mission, you can visit their website at unrealsnacks.com.
