A Closer Look at the Calories in Sour Squashies
Sour Squashies, a product from confectioner Swizzels, are a popular sour-flavoured gummy sweet. While delicious, understanding their nutritional content is essential for those monitoring their calorie intake or overall diet. Based on data from the manufacturer and retailers like Tesco, the calorie count is consistent across different sources.
Nutritional Information per 100g
For the most accurate assessment, it is best to look at the nutritional information per 100 grams, a standard measurement used for food products. According to Swizzels' own nutritional data, Sour Cherry & Apple Sour Squashies contain the following per 100g:
- Energy: 1507kJ / 355kcal
- Fat: 0.2g (of which saturates is 0.0g)
- Carbohydrates: 83g
- of which sugars: 62g
- Protein: 3.4g
- Salt: 0.07g
This breakdown reveals that the vast majority of calories in Sour Squashies come from their carbohydrate and sugar content, which is typical for gummy candies. The fat content is almost negligible, while the protein is minimal.
Per-Serving Breakdown
Since most people don't eat an entire 100g bag in one sitting, understanding the per-serving values is more practical. A standard 20g serving of Sour Squashies contains significantly fewer calories:
- Energy: 301kJ / 71kcal
- Fat: <0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- of which sugars: 12g
- Protein: 0.7g
- Salt: 0.01g
Ingredients and What They Mean for Calories
To understand why Sour Squashies have the nutritional profile they do, it helps to examine their ingredients. The primary ingredients are glucose syrup and sugar, which are both simple carbohydrates that provide energy (calories) and contribute to the high sugar count. The gelling agent, gelatin, and modified starch contribute to the texture but not significantly to the caloric load. The sour taste comes from citric acid, an acidity regulator.
How Do Sour Squashies Compare to Other Sweets?
It can be helpful to compare Sour Squashies to other popular sweets to put their calorie count into context. While all confectionery is high in sugar, the calorie density can vary. Here is a comparison per 100g:
| Confectionery | Calories (per 100g) | Sugar (per 100g) | Fat (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sour Squashies | ~355 kcal | ~62g | ~0.2g |
| Haribo Starmix | ~342 kcal | ~47g | <0.5g |
| Sour Patch Kids | ~326 kcal | ~63g | ~0.2g |
As the table shows, Sour Squashies have a comparable calorie count to other popular gummy sweets like Haribo Starmix and Sour Patch Kids. They are primarily a source of carbohydrates and sugar, offering little in the way of other nutrients. The subtle variations in calorie count and sugar content reflect differences in their specific ingredients and formulation.
The Impact of Sugar Content
The high sugar content of Sour Squashies and similar sweets is the main nutritional consideration. Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health concerns, including dental decay, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. For those managing their sugar intake, these treats should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular snack.
Considering a Healthy Lifestyle
For a balanced diet, it is important to consume energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods like confectionery sparingly. Incorporating plenty of whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, is key to maintaining good health. While a small serving of Sour Squashies can fit into a healthy lifestyle, it's about balance and moderation. For those seeking lower-calorie sweet treats, alternatives such as fruit or yogurt can satisfy a sweet tooth with added nutritional benefits.
Conclusion
Sour Squashies contain approximately 355 calories per 100g, with the majority of these calories derived from their high sugar and carbohydrate content. A standard 20g serving, which is a more realistic portion size, contains around 71 calories. When compared to other popular sweets, their caloric and sugar profile is fairly standard for gummy candies. As with any sugary treat, moderation is the key to enjoying them as part of a balanced diet. Being mindful of these nutritional facts allows for informed choices about what we eat. For more information on Swizzels products, including ingredients and nutritional facts, refer to the official website.
