Understanding Pelon Pelo Rico: A Multifaceted Mexican Candy
When people ask, “how many calories are in a pelon?”, they are most often referring to the popular Mexican candy, Pelon Pelo Rico. This treat is a sweet, sour, and spicy tamarind-flavored pulp that is squeezed out of a tube through a grated top, creating a fun, hair-like effect. The candy is made by the Lorena brand, which is a subsidiary of The Hershey Company. It’s important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on the specific product, as there are original, mini, jumbo (Pelonazo), and small pieces (Pelonetes) versions available. Knowing the specific size is key to determining the accurate caloric intake.
History and Appeal of Pelon Pelo Rico
First introduced in 1985 by the Mexican candy maker Grupo Lorena, Pelon Pelo Rico has become a nostalgic favorite for many. Its unique and interactive packaging, coupled with the distinct sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor profile, set it apart from other candies. The tamarind flavor, derived from the tropical tamarind fruit, provides a tart and sweet base, which is then enhanced with chili powder for a spicy kick. This combination of flavors creates an addictive taste sensation that appeals to both children and adults. Its popularity in Mexico led to its acquisition by The Hershey Company in 2004, and it is now widely available in many Mexican and specialty food stores around the world. The brand also expanded its offerings to include other flavors and formats, such as watermelon, sour lime, and Pelonetes hard candies.
Calorie Breakdown by Pelon Size
For those mindful of their calorie consumption, here is a detailed breakdown of the calorie content for the most common Pelon Pelo Rico products. It's essential to check the nutritional label on the specific product packaging, as slight variations may occur between different batches and distributors.
- Original Pelon Pelo Rico (1 oz or 28g package): The standard-sized tube contains approximately 90 calories. This portion is relatively consistent across most distributors. A single serving contains about 22 grams of sugar and 23 grams of carbohydrates, with no protein or fat.
- Mini Pelon Pelo Rico (15g package): The smaller, mini-sized tubes are a popular option for portion control or party favors. A single mini tube typically contains around 50 calories. This version contains approximately 12 grams of sugar and 12 grams of carbohydrates, with negligible amounts of fat or protein.
- Jumbo Pelonazo (3.5 oz or 100g package): The largest version, the Pelonazo, offers a much larger serving. The calorie count is naturally higher due to its size. A 3.5-ounce container typically contains around 110 calories per serving, though some tracking apps may cite slightly different values based on a standard 100g measure, which would be closer to 323 calories. This emphasizes the need to be aware of the serving size listed on the specific product you purchase, as larger servings will contain more sugar and calories.
- Pelon Pelonetes (tamarind candy pieces): This variant, which consists of small tamarind candy balls, is sold in bags. A serving of 15 pieces contains around 60 calories.
Nutrition Facts: What’s in a Pelon?
While the calorie count is a primary concern for many, a full understanding of the nutritional makeup of a Pelon Pelo Rico is also insightful. The ingredients are predominantly sugar, water, and corn syrup, which explains why the carbohydrate and sugar content is so high.
Pelon Pelo Rico Standard Nutritional Breakdown (per 28g serving):
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Total Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 0g
This breakdown clearly shows that Pelon Pelo Rico is an energy-dense, high-sugar snack with minimal nutritional value, offering no protein, fat, or dietary fiber. It is essentially a source of quick carbohydrates and added sugars. The high sodium content is also notable for a candy product.
Comparison Table: Pelon Pelo Rico vs. Other Candies
To put the calorie count of a Pelon Pelo Rico into perspective, let's compare it with other popular candy options. This table helps to illustrate how the sweet and spicy treat measures up against some common alternatives.
| Candy Type | Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pelon Pelo Rico (Original) | 1 package (28g) | 90 | Sugar, corn syrup, chili, tamarind |
| Pelon Pelo Rico Mini | 1 piece (15g) | 50 | Sugar, corn syrup, chili, tamarind |
| Pelon Pelonetes | 15 pieces (15g) | 60 | Sugar, corn syrup, chili, tamarind |
| Mexican Lollipop (Tamarind/Mango) | 1 pop (0.8 oz) | 80 | Sugar, corn syrup, chili, tamarind |
| Gummy Bears (Standard) | 17 pieces (30g) | 100 | Sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, flavorings |
| Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar | 1 bar (43g) | 220 | Sugar, milk, chocolate, cocoa butter |
This table demonstrates that a single serving of an original Pelon is relatively comparable in calories to other popular candies, although its nutritional profile, particularly the high sodium and sugar content relative to other nutrients, is unique to the tamarind and chili formulation. Visit Hersheyland's official Pelon page for nutritional information.
How to Incorporate Pelon into a Balanced Diet
For those who enjoy the unique flavor of a Pelon Pelo Rico, there are ways to enjoy it as part of a balanced diet without excess. As with any sugary snack, moderation is key. Consider treating a Pelon as a special indulgence rather than a regular treat.
- Portion Control: Opt for the smaller mini-sized Pelon Pelo Rico to satisfy a craving with fewer calories. This helps manage your sugar intake without completely denying yourself the flavor you enjoy.
- Pair with Whole Foods: Combine a small portion of the candy with a healthier snack like fresh fruit or nuts. For instance, a small squeeze of the tamarind pulp can complement the taste of a plain apple or pear, which provides fiber and other nutrients.
- Budgeting Calories: If you know you want to have a Pelon, plan for it in your daily calorie budget. Account for the sugar and sodium content, especially if you are monitoring those levels for health reasons.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is good general health advice and can also help balance out the sugars consumed from candy.
- Active Lifestyle: Complement your treats with physical activity. Incorporating exercise into your routine helps offset the calories from occasional indulgences.
Conclusion: The Final Word on Pelon Calories
While delightful in flavor, a Pelon Pelo Rico, like most candies, is primarily a source of sugar and calories. A standard original tube contains approximately 90 calories, with mini versions closer to 50 calories. The caloric value increases with larger sizes, like the jumbo Pelonazo. Since the candy offers minimal nutritional benefits beyond quick energy, it is best enjoyed in moderation. By being mindful of serving sizes and integrating it into a balanced lifestyle, you can appreciate the distinctive taste of this Mexican classic without overindulging.
