How many calories are in one gum drop?

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a single small gumdrop (about 3.2g) contains approximately 13 calories. While the exact number can vary depending on its size and brand, this figure provides a good baseline for understanding how many calories are in one gum drop.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a single gumdrop varies by size, with small ones containing around 13 calories, medium ones at about 17, and larger varieties having more. Made primarily from sugar and corn syrup, gumdrops offer minimal nutritional value and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Key Points

Size Matters: The calorie count in a single gumdrop depends on its size, ranging from approximately 13 for a small one to 46 for a large piece.
Mainly Sugar: Gumdrops are high in simple carbohydrates (sugar and corn syrup) and provide little to no other nutritional benefits.
High Calorie Density: Although a single gumdrop has few calories, the calorie density is high, and calories can add up quickly when eating multiple pieces.
Empty Calories: They are primarily composed of "empty calories" and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Compare to Other Candies: A small gumdrop has fewer calories than many other fun-sized chocolate candies, but cumulative snacking can easily surpass them.
Check the Label: For precise information, it's always best to check the nutritional label of a specific gumdrop brand, as ingredients and sizes can vary.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Gumdrops

Gumdrops are a classic, chewy confectionary treat, but their calorie content is not a one-size-fits-all number. The final calorie count is heavily dependent on the gumdrop's size. A small gumdrop is vastly different nutritionally from a large, decorative one.

Calorie Breakdown by Gumdrop Size

Data from nutritional sources like Nutritionix and FatSecret show a clear correlation between gumdrop size and calorie content. For example:

Small gumdrop (approx. 1/2" diameter): Around 13 calories
Medium gumdrop (approx. 3/4" diameter): Approximately 17 calories
Large gumdrop (approx. 1" diameter): Can contain as many as 46 calories
Jelly ring (a larger variant): Contains about 40 calories

These numbers highlight that enjoying a few small gumdrops is a very different proposition than indulging in a single, large one. The cumulative effect of multiple pieces can add up quickly.

The Ingredients That Define Gumdrop Calories

To understand why gumdrops contain these calories, one must look at their primary ingredients. A typical gumdrop recipe relies on a few key components:

Sugar: The most significant source of calories. Sugar provides 4 calories per gram. Gumdrops are essentially concentrated sugar, often listed first in the ingredient list.
Corn Syrup: A liquid sweetener that adds to the sugar content and contributes to the candy's chewy texture.
Modified Corn Starch: Used as a thickening and gelling agent, though it does not contribute significant calories compared to the sugars.
Flavorings and Colorings: These are added for taste and visual appeal but have a negligible impact on the overall calorie count.

Because these candies are almost entirely composed of simple carbohydrates (sugars), they offer a high-density source of empty calories with virtually no vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber.

How Gumdrops Compare to Other Candies

To put the calorie count of a gumdrop into perspective, let's compare it to other popular confections. This helps a consumer make a more informed choice when considering a sweet treat.

Calorie Comparison: Gumdrops vs. Other Candies


Candy Type	Per-Piece Calories (Approx.)	Calorie Source	Notes
Small Gumdrop	13	Sugar, Corn Syrup	Primarily empty calories.
Medium Gumdrop	17	Sugar, Corn Syrup	Still low per piece, but adds up.
Fun Size 3 Musketeers	63	Sugar, Fat, Nougat	Contains some fat, unlike gumdrops.
Fun Size Milky Way	80	Sugar, Fat, Caramel, Nougat	Higher calorie density due to fats.
Regular Reese's Cup	105	Sugar, Fat, Peanut Butter	Significantly higher in both calories and fat.
Hard Candy (1 piece)	24	Sugar, Corn Syrup	Fewer calories per piece than a medium gumdrop due to smaller size.

This table illustrates that while a single small gumdrop is relatively low in calories compared to a fun-size chocolate bar, the calorie density is high. Ten medium gumdrops would equal 170 calories, surpassing a fun-size chocolate bar.

The Role of Moderation in a Balanced Diet

It is critical to remember that treats like gumdrops have their place in a balanced diet, but only in moderation. Since they are primarily sugar, overconsumption can lead to various health concerns, including weight gain and dental issues. For those managing their sugar intake, being mindful of the portion size is crucial. A single piece can be a satisfying, low-calorie treat, but it is easy to eat several without realizing the cumulative calorie impact.

Conclusion

In summary, the calorie content of a single gumdrop is directly related to its size. A small gumdrop contains around 13 calories, a medium one holds about 17, and larger versions can have upwards of 40 calories. These figures are not fixed across all brands, but they offer a reliable estimate. As a sugar-based confection, gumdrops provide minimal nutritional value and should be treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a staple snack. For those seeking lower-calorie or sugar-free alternatives, it is always best to check the product's nutrition label for the most accurate information. When managing weight or simply watching sugar intake, understanding these numbers allows for more conscious and controlled snacking.

Visit the American Heart Association for information on daily sugar intake recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count varies significantly based on the gumdrop's size. Small gumdrops have fewer calories than medium or large ones, and differences can also exist between brands.

The primary ingredients are sugar and corn syrup, which contribute most of the calories. Modified corn starch, flavorings, and artificial colorings are also common ingredients.

A single small gumdrop, typically about 1/2-inch in diameter, contains approximately 13 calories.

A medium gumdrop, which is larger than the small variety, contains about 17 calories per piece.

Gumdrops offer minimal to no nutritional value. They are high in sugar and lack essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber.

The flavor (fruit or spice) does not significantly impact the calorie count, as the calories come primarily from the sugar and corn syrup base, which are consistent across flavors.

Sugar-free gumdrops are often lower in calories, but it's important to read the label. They may contain sugar alcohols, which can have a laxative effect for some and still contribute some calories.