The Classic Hershey's Milk Chocolate Kiss
For those who prefer the classic taste, the standard milk chocolate Hershey Kiss is a baseline for comparison. Based on a standard 7-piece serving size, which contains 18 grams of total sugars, a single kiss contains approximately 2.57 grams of sugar. For context, there are about 4.2 grams of sugar in one standard US teaspoon, which means each classic kiss holds a little over half a teaspoon of sugar.
The primary ingredients in this small candy are listed as sugar, milk, chocolate, cocoa butter, milk fat, lecithin (an emulsifier), and natural flavors, with sugar being the most prominent ingredient by weight. This means that the majority of the kiss's mass is, in fact, sugar.
Sugar Content in Other Kiss Flavors
The sugar content varies depending on the specific type of Hershey's Kiss. Different flavors, especially those with fillings or different chocolate bases, have distinct nutritional profiles. For instance, the richer flavor of a special dark chocolate kiss or the added texture of a milk chocolate with almonds kiss will alter the sugar-to-chocolate ratio.
Special Dark Kisses
A Special Dark Hershey Kiss, due to its higher cocoa content, has a slightly different sugar profile than its milk chocolate counterpart. A 7-piece serving contains 17 grams of total sugars, which breaks down to about 2.43 grams of sugar per kiss. This is marginally less sugar per piece than the classic milk chocolate flavor.
Milk Chocolate with Almonds Kisses
Adding almonds changes the nutritional composition, introducing more protein and fiber, and slightly altering the sugar content. A 7-piece serving of Milk Chocolate with Almonds Kisses contains 15 grams of total sugars. This means each piece has roughly 2.14 grams of sugar, making it one of the lower-sugar options among the main varieties.
Comparison of Popular Hershey's Kisses
To make it easy to compare, here is a table outlining the sugar content for some of the most popular varieties of Hershey's Kisses.
| Flavor | Sugar per 7-piece Serving (g) | Sugar per Individual Kiss (approx. g) | Sugar per Individual Kiss (approx. tsp) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk Chocolate | 18g | 2.57g | 0.61 tsp |
| Special Dark | 17g | 2.43g | 0.58 tsp |
| Milk Chocolate with Almonds | 15g | 2.14g | 0.51 tsp |
A Look at Other Hershey's Kisses Varieties
Hershey's has released a vast number of limited-edition and specialty kiss flavors over the years, and each will have its own unique sugar count. Examples of other varieties include:
- Caramel-filled Kisses
- Cookies 'n' Creme Kisses
- Cherry Cordial Kisses
- Mint Truffle Kisses
- Pumpkin Spice Kisses (seasonal)
It is important to check the nutritional information for these specific, less common flavors, as their fillings and ingredients will significantly change the sugar content per piece. For the most accurate information, consumers should check the product's official SmartLabel page, which can be accessed by scanning the QR code on the packaging.
Understanding Added Sugar and Moderation
Most of the sugar found in a Hershey Kiss is added sugar, as indicated by the product's ingredient list. Health guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association recommend limiting daily added sugar intake to help prevent health issues like heart disease and diabetes. For example, the recommended daily limit is 24 grams for women and 36 grams for men. With each kiss containing over 2 grams, it is clear that even a small handful can contribute significantly to one's daily intake.
Conclusion
While a single Hershey's Kiss is a small indulgence with a modest amount of sugar, it is easy to consume several, accumulating a significant amount of sugar quickly. A classic milk chocolate kiss contains around 2.6 grams of sugar per piece, with other popular varieties like Special Dark and Milk Chocolate with Almonds having slightly less. To make informed choices, always check the nutritional label, especially for seasonal or specialty flavors, and enjoy these treats as part of a balanced diet.
