How Many Calories Are in 8 Gummy Bears?

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

According to one nutrition data source, a single standard gummy bear contains approximately 9 calories. With this information, estimating how many calories are in 8 gummy bears requires understanding the variations in size and brand.

Quick Summary

A standard serving of eight gummy bears typically contains between 72 and 96 calories, although the precise amount varies by brand and specific product. These calories primarily come from sugars and corn syrup, with very little nutritional value beyond that.

Key Points

Calorie Range: 8 standard gummy bears contain roughly 72 to 96 calories, with the precise amount varying by brand and size.
Primary Calorie Source: The calories in gummy bears come almost entirely from sugars and corn syrup, offering minimal nutritional benefits.
Low Nutritional Value: Gummy bears are considered 'empty calories,' providing negligible amounts of protein, fat, or fiber.
Brand Variations: The specific calorie count is not uniform across all products; it differs significantly between brands like Haribo, Albanese, and store brands due to variations in size and ingredients.
Sugar-Free Alternatives: Sugar-free versions offer a lower-calorie alternative but often use sugar alcohols that can cause digestive issues if consumed excessively.
Moderation is Key: Due to their high added sugar content, gummy bears are best enjoyed as an occasional treat to avoid exceeding daily sugar intake recommendations.

The Calorie Count for Standard Gummy Bears

While a precise, universal calorie count for gummy bears is impossible due to brand and size variations, a reliable estimate can be made. Based on nutrition data for common gummy candies, a single gummy bear is often estimated to contain between 9 and 12 calories, depending on its size. Therefore, a portion of 8 gummy bears would typically contain between 72 and 96 calories.

The Calculation Explained

To arrive at this estimate, consider the weight of an average gummy bear. For example, if a standard gummy bear weighs about 2.2 grams and contains 9 calories, then:

One gummy bear: ~9 calories
Eight gummy bears: $8 \times 9 = 72$ calories

Alternatively, if a larger gummy bear contains closer to 12 calories, the total for eight would be:

One gummy bear: ~12 calories
Eight gummy bears: $8 \times 12 = 96$ calories

This simple multiplication demonstrates why the calorie count can vary, and why it's always best to check the specific product's nutrition label for the most accurate information.

Factors that Influence Gummy Bear Calories

The calorie content of gummy bears is not a fixed number and several variables can alter the nutritional profile of your portion of eight. These factors include:

Brand and size: Different manufacturers, such as Haribo and Albanese, produce gummy bears in various sizes and weights. A larger or heavier gummy bear will naturally have more calories than a smaller one.
Ingredients: The use of real fruit juice versus artificial flavorings, and the type of sugar or sweetener used (e.g., cane sugar, corn syrup, or sugar alcohols) can change the calorie density.
Sugar-free variants: These versions use sugar substitutes like maltitol or stevia, which significantly reduces the calorie count. However, some sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues if consumed in excess.
Added vitamins or supplements: Gummy vitamins, while still tasting like candy, are fortified with vitamins and minerals and have a different nutritional makeup than standard candy gummies.

Comparison Table: Standard vs. Sugar-Free Gummy Bears

This table provides a generalized comparison of the nutritional content for an 8-gummy bear serving of both a standard and a sugar-free variety, based on average figures.


Nutritional Aspect	Standard Gummy Bears (approx. 8 pieces)	Sugar-Free Gummy Bears (approx. 8 pieces)
Calories	72–96 kcal	40–60 kcal
Total Carbohydrates	16–20 g	10–15 g
Sugars	12–15 g	0–2 g
Sugar Alcohols	0 g	10–15 g
Protein	<1 g	<1 g
Fat	0 g	0 g
Fiber	0 g	0 g

The Ingredients Behind the Calories

Most traditional gummy bears are a source of "empty calories," meaning they provide energy but very little nutritional value. A typical list of ingredients includes:

Glucose Syrup (Corn Syrup): The primary sweetener and base that provides the signature chewy texture.
Sugar: Additional sweetener to enhance the flavor.
Gelatin: The gelling agent responsible for the iconic 'gummy' consistency. It is a protein, but not a significant source in such small quantities.
Dextrose: A simple sugar that adds sweetness.
Citric Acid: Provides the tangy, sour flavor.
Natural and Artificial Flavors: To create the distinct fruit taste.
Artificial Colors: For visual appeal.

Nutritional Impact and Moderation

While eight gummy bears represents a relatively low-calorie treat, it is important to consider the context of your overall diet. The primary concern with consuming too many gummy bears is their high sugar content. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily added sugar intake to no more than 36 grams for men and 25 grams for women. A single serving of just eight gummy bears can contribute a significant portion of this daily allowance. Excess sugar intake is linked to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.

For those who regularly consume gummies or other sugary sweets, making conscious choices is essential. Opting for smaller portions, choosing sugar-free alternatives, or enjoying them as an occasional treat can help manage sugar consumption. Combining the snack with a source of protein or fiber can also help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote a feeling of fullness. Always consider the full nutritional profile, not just the calorie count.

For a deeper understanding of food and nutrition, consider visiting the USDA FoodData Central for authoritative information on a wide range of products.

Conclusion: Understanding Your Snack

In summary, the number of calories in 8 gummy bears is not a single, fixed number but an estimate, typically falling within the 72 to 96 calorie range for standard varieties. This variation is due to differences in brand, size, and formulation. While a small handful of gummy bears is a relatively low-calorie treat, their high sugar content and minimal nutritional value mean they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Being mindful of portion sizes and considering alternative options, like sugar-free versions, can help satisfy a sweet tooth without overdoing it on added sugars. Always check the nutrition label for the most accurate information on your specific product.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count varies significantly between brands, sizes, and whether they are standard or sugar-free. It is always best to check the specific product's nutrition label for the most accurate information.

The main ingredients are typically glucose syrup (corn syrup), sugar, gelatin, citric acid, and flavorings.

While sugar-free gummy bears have fewer calories and sugar, they often use sugar alcohols that can cause digestive distress in some individuals. They are not a replacement for healthier, nutrient-dense foods.

Standard gummy bears typically contain no fat. Some brands might use a small amount of oil as a glazing agent, but this adds a negligible amount of fat to the nutritional profile.

Gummy bears can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, but they should be considered an occasional treat. Their high sugar content and minimal nutrients mean they are not a primary food source.

Yes, many vegan gummy bear alternatives exist. Instead of gelatin (which is animal-derived), they use plant-based gelling agents like pectin or agar.

Counting by weight is often more accurate for calorie tracking because the size and weight of individual gummy bears can vary, even within the same bag. Nutrition labels typically provide serving sizes in grams for consistency.