A Closer Look at the Calories in 6 Starburst
For many, Starburst are a nostalgic, juicy treat, but for those counting calories or managing their sugar intake, understanding the nutritional facts is key. The widely cited nutritional information from the manufacturer's website and various food databases confirms that six pieces of Starburst Original Fruit Chews contain 120 calories. This provides a straightforward answer to the question of how many calories are in 6 Starburst, but the full picture reveals more about what's inside these colorful squares.
The calorie content comes primarily from the carbohydrates, specifically sugar. Each six-piece serving contains 24 grams of carbohydrates, with 16 grams of that coming from sugars. This represents a significant portion of the recommended daily sugar intake, especially for those on a strict dietary plan. It is also important to note the fat content, which is 2.5 grams of total fat, all of which is saturated fat. Since there are no healthy fats or protein, the 120 calories are considered 'empty calories.'
Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving (6 pieces)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
- Sugars: 16 g
- Protein: 0 g
It is worth noting that while flavors like 'All Pink' also adhere to the 120-calorie serving size for six pieces, some variations, like Starburst minis or gummies, may have slightly different nutritional values per serving. Checking the specific product packaging is always the best way to get the most accurate information.
Starburst vs. Other Popular Candies: A Comparison
When considering a candy craving, it's helpful to see how Starburst stack up against other popular treats. Comparing the calorie and sugar content can help make an informed decision, especially for those watching their intake.
| Candy (Serving Size) | Calories | Sugar (g) | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starburst (6 pieces) | 120 | 16 | Corn Syrup, Sugar, Hydrogenated Palm Oil |
| Skittles (1 oz) | 110 [Search result] | 22 [Search result] | Sugar, Corn Syrup, Hydrogenated Palm Oil |
| M&M's Plain (1.5 oz bag) | 210 [Search result] | 30 [Search result] | Milk Chocolate, Sugar, Corn Syrup |
| Gummy Bears (17 pieces) | 130 [Search result] | 22 [Search result] | Corn Syrup, Sugar, Gelatin |
As the table demonstrates, Starburst falls within a similar caloric range to many other non-chocolate candies when comparing a standard snack size. However, the sugar content remains a key consideration, as with most sweet treats.
The Ingredients and Health Implications
Beyond just calories and sugar, the ingredients in Starburst are a point of discussion for some consumers. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) flags the product as a highly processed food with several additives of concern, including artificial colors like Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1. These synthetic food dyes, along with the high sugar and saturated fat levels, contribute to Starburst being classified as an unhealthy, ultra-processed snack. Excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods has been linked to various health concerns, including obesity, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes. While enjoying a small treat occasionally is fine, relying on these types of snacks for energy is not recommended.
Making Smarter Snack Choices
For those seeking alternatives, there are plenty of options that offer a more balanced nutritional profile. These include:
- Fresh Fruit: Nature's candy, full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. An apple or a handful of berries can satisfy a sweet tooth with fewer calories and more nutrients.
- Dried Fruit (in moderation): Options like raisins or dried cranberries offer concentrated sweetness but should be portion-controlled due to their higher sugar content.
- Homemade Fruit Snacks: Creating your own fruit leather or gummies using fruit puree and gelatin can eliminate artificial ingredients and control sugar levels.
- Dark Chocolate: A small piece of dark chocolate (70% or higher) can be a satisfying treat with the added benefit of antioxidants.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of how many calories are in 6 Starburst has a simple answer: 120 calories. However, this seemingly low number belies the high sugar and saturated fat content within that small serving size. When viewed in the context of an overall diet, these calories are considered 'empty' as they provide little to no nutritional benefit. While enjoying a small handful of Starburst on occasion is unlikely to derail a healthy eating plan, being aware of the full nutritional profile is crucial for making informed and healthier snack choices. Considering natural, less processed alternatives or controlling portion sizes can help satisfy cravings without over-consuming sugar and artificial ingredients. For more information on the processing of foods like Starburst, check out the EWG Food Scores database for a detailed analysis of ingredients and nutrition.
