The number of calories in a pack of Smarties depends on the specific product. The American version, which is a tart, dextrose-based candy, contains fewer calories than the chocolate-based Smarties found in other countries.
American Smarties (Candy Wafer Roll)
In the United States, a pack of Smarties is a roll of pastel-colored candies from the Smarties Candy Company.
- One roll has approximately 25 calories.
- The ingredients include dextrose, citric acid, calcium stearate, natural and artificial flavors, and colors.
- This version is vegan, gluten-free, fat-free, and free from the top nine major food allergens.
UK/Canadian Smarties (Chocolate)
In the UK, Canada, and other markets, "Smarties" refers to milk chocolates covered in a crisp sugar shell, similar to M&M's. These have a different calorie and nutritional profile.
- A standard 38g tube of UK Smarties has approximately 179-190 calories.
- Ingredients include milk chocolate, sugar, skimmed milk powder, vegetable fats, and wheat flour, meaning they are not gluten-free or vegan.
Calorie and Nutrition Comparison
The table below highlights the key nutritional differences between the US and UK/Canadian Smarties.
| Feature | US Smarties (Wafer Roll) | UK/Canadian Smarties (Chocolate) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~25 calories per 7g roll | ~179-190 calories per 38g tube |
| Main Ingredient | Dextrose (Sugar) | Milk Chocolate |
| Fat Content | 0g per roll | High, around 8.9g per 50g box |
| Sugar Content | 6g per roll | High, around 33.8g per 50g box |
| Vegan | Yes | No (contains milk) |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | No (contains wheat flour) |
Impact on Dietary Choices
Knowing the difference is important for dietary management. The American Smarties roll is often considered a low-calorie treat. Its fat-free and allergen-friendly nature makes it a safe choice. However, confusing this with the chocolate-based Smarties from the UK or Canada could affect calorie intake, especially for those with allergies or Celiac disease. Always check the packaging to ensure the right product for dietary needs.
Other "Smarties" Products
The Smarties Candy Company in the US also produces other varieties:
- Smarties Minis: Approximately 15 calories per roll.
- Smarties Giant: Approximately 25 calories per 7g portion.
- Smarties Theater Box: The chocolate version, produced under license, contains around 210 calories per 45g box.
Conclusion
The number of calories in a pack of Smarties isn't a single number. The American Smarties roll differs significantly from its European chocolate counterpart. The US version is a low-calorie, allergen-friendly option. In contrast, a tube of UK or Canadian Smarties has a much higher calorie count. Consumers should verify the product based on origin to understand the nutritional value.
Understanding the Calorie Differences
The calorie difference is due to the base ingredients. American Smarties rely on dextrose, a simple sugar with no fat, while the Nestle chocolate version uses milk chocolate and fats, which are much more calorie-dense. The fat adds more calories than the same volume of sugar.
Ingredients Breakdown
American Smarties have a short ingredient list with dextrose and citric acid. The international chocolate version includes sugar, cocoa butter, milk powder, and vegetable fats, accounting for the higher fat and calorie content.
Outbound link (optional): For further allergen and nutritional information on the American candy, visit the official Smarties website.
Serving Size and Consumption
Serving size also matters. A US Smarties roll is a fixed portion, while larger boxes or tubes of international Smarties have multiple servings. This can lead to underestimating calorie consumption. For example, a 38g tube of UK Smarties is often noted as containing 2 servings, meaning one would consume nearly 180 calories by eating the entire tube.
