American Smarties vs. International Smarties
The perception that Smarties contain insect-derived ingredients stems from conflating two very different candies with the same name. In the United States, the brand name "Smarties" refers to the small, tart, compressed dextrose candies packaged in a roll. In many other countries, particularly in the UK and Canada, "Smarties" are chocolate-coated candies similar to M&M's and made by Nestlé. These distinct products have vastly different ingredient lists and, therefore, different implications for dietary choices like veganism, vegetarianism, and halal or kosher observance.
The American Smarties: Vegan and Allergen-Free
For those concerned about insect products, the good news is that the American-made Smarties are completely vegan and free from the top nine major food allergens. Their ingredients are simple and plant-based, making them a safe choice for many with dietary restrictions. According to the Smarties Candy Company, the ingredients are a mix of sugar, citric acid, calcium stearate, and natural and artificial flavors and colors. The colors are typically synthetic, not insect-based, and calcium stearate is plant-derived. This means the hard candy wafers sold in the US do not contain any beetle shells or other insect-derived products.
The European and Canadian Smarties: A History with Insect Dyes and Glazes
Historically, the chocolate-coated Nestlé Smarties were a different story. For many years, the red and violet colors were made with cochineal (also known as carmine or E120), a red dye derived from crushed female cochineal insects. However, public pressure and a shift towards 'clean label' ingredients led Nestlé to change its formula. Today, the colours in Nestlé Smarties are derived from natural sources like spirulina, beet red, turmeric, and carotene.
While the colorants have changed, another insect-derived ingredient, the glazing agent, has been used in some versions. Confectioner's glaze, a shiny coating made from the secretions of the female lac bug, has been a common ingredient in many candies. Some varieties of Nestlé Smarties still use glazing agents like shellac (E904), which comes from insects, or beeswax. Other versions may use plant-based carnauba wax. Because recipes vary by country and manufacturer, it is vital for consumers to check the ingredient list on the specific product packaging.
Understanding Common Candy Glazing Agents
Many consumers may not be aware that common ingredients give candies their smooth, glossy finish. The term 'beetle shells' often colloquially refers to these insect-derived glazes. Here are the facts about two of the most common ones:
Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze, Resinous Glaze)
- Source: Shellac is a resin secreted by the female lac bug, Kerria lacca. This resin hardens on tree branches and is later harvested, melted, and purified to create the glaze.
- Dietary Relevance: As it is an animal-derived product, it is not suitable for vegan diets and is typically not considered halal.
Carnauba Wax (Brazil Wax, Palm Wax)
- Source: Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based wax obtained from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm tree.
- Dietary Relevance: Since it is plant-based, carnauba wax is a vegan-friendly glazing agent and does not pose the same dietary conflicts as shellac.
The Rise of Vegan Glazes
As consumer demand for plant-based and cruelty-free products grows, alternatives to shellac have become more prevalent. Vegan glazes, such as those made from corn protein, are gaining popularity and are used by many confectioners to achieve a similar glossy finish without animal products.
Comparison: US Smarties vs. European/Canadian Smarties
| Feature | US Smarties (Wafer Rolls) | European/Canadian Smarties (Chocolate) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Compressed dextrose wafer candy | Milk chocolate coated in a sugar shell |
| Main Sweetener | Dextrose, sugar | Sugar, milk chocolate |
| Insect-Derived Colorant | None | Used cochineal (E120) historically; now uses natural plant extracts |
| Glazing Agent | None (wafer candy) | May use shellac (E904), beeswax, or plant-based carnauba wax; varies by region |
| Allergen Information | Free from the top 9 major allergens (manufactured in peanut-free facilities) | Contains milk, wheat, soy |
| Vegan Status | Yes | No, contains milk chocolate and potentially insect-derived glazes |
The Real Nutritional Takeaway
Beyond the debate over insect-derived ingredients, it is important to place these candies within the context of an overall nutrition diet. Both types of Smarties are, at their core, high-sugar confectionery. The American rolls contain about 86% sugar by weight, and a single serving of Nestlé Smarties contains a significant amount of added sugars. While fun to eat in moderation, they offer minimal nutritional value and are not a significant source of vitamins, minerals, or fiber.
A balanced nutrition diet prioritizes whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while limiting processed sugars. Whether or not a candy contains insect-derived dyes or glazes, it is still a treat to be consumed sparingly. For those with specific dietary requirements, understanding the difference between versions and checking the ingredient list is the most reliable path to informed choices.
Conclusion
The short answer to the question "Are Smarties made out of beetle shells?" is a definitive no for the wafer candy rolls in the US and a more nuanced answer for the chocolate version in the UK and Canada. The myth likely stems from a combination of past practices (using cochineal for colour) and the potential use of insect-derived glazing agents (shellac) in certain chocolate varieties. However, neither of these is directly made from "beetle shells." The key is awareness—knowing the difference between products sold under the same brand name and learning to read and understand ingredients lists, especially regarding glazing agents like shellac and carnauba wax. This knowledge empowers consumers to make informed decisions that align with their dietary principles.
To learn more about food ingredients and safety, a good resource is the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Key Takeaways
- American Smarties are vegan: The simple, wafer-like dextrose candies sold in the USA are vegan and free from insect-derived ingredients.
- UK and Canadian Smarties differ: The chocolate-coated versions contain milk and may be coated with insect-derived glazing agents like shellac, though they no longer use cochineal dye.
- The 'beetle shells' myth is about a specific ingredient: The concern is rooted in the use of cochineal (a red dye from crushed insects) and shellac (a glaze from lac bugs) in certain candies, not beetle shells themselves.
- Carnauba wax is a plant-based alternative: This common glazing agent comes from a Brazilian palm tree and is suitable for vegan diets.
- Ingredients vary by region: Always check the packaging of your specific candy, as formulations and dietary suitability can vary significantly depending on the country of origin.
- Moderation is key: Regardless of ingredients, both types of Smarties are high in sugar and should be consumed as an occasional treat within a balanced diet.
FAQs
Question: Are the rolled Smarties sold in the USA vegan? Answer: Yes, the Smarties wafer candies produced by the Smarties Candy Company are vegan, gluten-free, and do not contain any animal products.
Question: Why are there two different types of candy called 'Smarties'? Answer: The two products originate from different companies in different regions. The American Smarties are from the Smarties Candy Company, while the chocolate-coated versions in Canada and Europe are produced by Nestlé.
Question: What is shellac, and is it a beetle shell? Answer: Shellac, also known as confectioner's glaze, is a resinous substance secreted by the female lac bug, not directly from a beetle's shell. It is a processed insect product used for a shiny coating.
Question: What is cochineal, and is it still used in Smarties? Answer: Cochineal, or carmine, is a vibrant red dye derived from crushed insects. Nestlé Smarties in the UK and Canada have replaced this dye with natural, plant-based alternatives.
Question: Are Nestlé Smarties suitable for a vegan diet? Answer: No, Nestlé Smarties are not suitable for a vegan diet because they contain milk chocolate. Some versions may also contain insect-derived glazing agents.
Question: How can I tell if a candy contains insect-derived ingredients? Answer: Always read the ingredient label. Look for terms like 'confectioner's glaze,' 'shellac' (E904), 'beeswax,' 'carmine,' or 'cochineal extract' (E120).
Question: Is the use of shellac in food safe? Answer: Yes, the use of shellac in food is approved by regulatory bodies and considered safe for consumption. The primary concern is for those following specific dietary paths, like vegetarian or vegan diets, which exclude insect-derived products.
