Nutrition Diet: What Are the Ingredients in Jolly Rancher Popsicles?

October 11, 2025 •

3 min read

While some versions contain as few as 35-40 calories per pop, the list of components that create the iconic flavor can be more complex than expected. This leads many to ask: What are the ingredients in Jolly Rancher popsicles?. A closer look at the label reveals a surprisingly different formulation based on whether you're enjoying the Popsicle-branded ice pop or the freezer pop version.

Quick Summary

Jolly Rancher popsicles have varied ingredients depending on the manufacturer, primarily containing water, corn syrups, and flavorings. One version uses naturally sourced colors, while another includes artificial colors and sweeteners. Consumers should check product labels for specific additives like stabilizers and preservatives.

Key Points

Two Primary Versions: Jolly Rancher popsicles come in two common forms: Popsicle brand ice pops and Jel Sert freezer pops, which have distinct ingredient lists.
Natural vs. Artificial Colors: The Popsicle brand uses naturally sourced colors from beet juice and spirulina, while the Jel Sert freezer pops contain artificial dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1.
Sugar vs. Artificial Sweeteners: The Popsicle variety relies on corn syrups and sugar, whereas the freezer pops use artificial, non-nutritive sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
Added Preservatives: Jel Sert's freezer pops include preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are not listed in the Popsicle ice pop ingredient list.
Generally Dairy-Free: Both products are typically non-dairy, though consumers should be aware of a past recall for single-serve items due to milk contamination and always check the label.
Importance of Labels: Given the differences between manufacturers, always read the specific product's ingredient list and nutrition facts to make informed dietary decisions.

Understanding the Different Jolly Rancher Pop Varieties

Not all Jolly Rancher popsicles are created equal. The ingredients and nutritional profiles can differ significantly based on the manufacturer and product format. The two most common types found in stores are the Popsicle-branded ice pops (manufactured by Unilever) and the shelf-stable freezer pops (often manufactured by The Jel Sert Company). Both offer the beloved candy flavors but achieve them through distinct formulations.

The Popsicle Brand Jolly Rancher Ice Pop

This version typically features colors derived from natural sources and includes a blend of sweeteners like high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, and sugar. Malic acid and citric acid provide tartness, while guar gum, xanthan gum, and locust bean gum act as stabilizers for texture. Colors come from sources such as beet juice, vegetable juice, spirulina extract, and turmeric oleoresin. Natural and artificial flavors, along with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), complete the ingredient list.

The Jolly Rancher Freezer Pop

Often a freeze-at-home liquid product, this version uses artificial food dyes and sweeteners. Its base is water and high fructose corn syrup, with malic acid and citric acid for tartness. Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate are included as preservatives. Artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium contribute sweetness without extra calories. Artificial colors like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 are used for vibrant hues, alongside natural and artificial flavors.

Comparison of Jolly Rancher Ice Pops and Freezer Pops


Ingredient Category	Popsicle Brand Ice Pops (Unilever)	Jolly Rancher Freezer Pops (Jel Sert)
Sweeteners	High Fructose Corn Syrup, Corn Syrup, Sugar	High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium
Coloring	Natural sources (Beet juice, spirulina, turmeric)	Artificial dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1)
Preservatives	None explicitly listed for this purpose	Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Stabilizers	Guar gum, xanthan gum, locust bean gum	None typically listed, as stabilizers aren't needed for a liquid product
Vitamin	Contains Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)	Vitamin C is not typically an ingredient

Nutritional and Dietary Considerations

Both versions are typically low in calories and fat-free, but their sugar content and specific additives differ. The Popsicle ice pops contain added sugars from corn syrups and sugar. The freezer pops use high fructose corn syrup and rely on artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium for sweetness, resulting in a potentially lower sugar count but introducing different additives.

Both products are generally considered dairy-free. However, a recall in 2024 for single-serving Popsicle Jolly Rancher products highlighted a risk of milk contamination in some instances, emphasizing the importance of checking labels for allergen information, especially for those with dairy allergies. The Jel Sert freezer pops are advertised as gluten-free and kosher, but those with severe sensitivities should always verify with the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Knowing the ingredients is important when choosing between the different Jolly Rancher popsicle varieties. The Popsicle brand uses a combination of corn syrups and naturally sourced colors, while the Jel Sert freezer pops utilize artificial sweeteners and colorings. Both options are typically low-calorie and free of major allergens like dairy and gluten, but their specific components, particularly the sweeteners and colorants, differentiate them. Always consult the product label to ensure the ingredients align with your dietary needs and preferences. For further information on sweeteners, the FDA website on sweeteners is a valuable resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are at least two common varieties: Popsicle brand ice pops and Jolly Rancher freezer pops, often made by The Jel Sert Company. They have different ingredients and formulations.

Yes, the Popsicle brand Jolly Rancher ice pops are explicitly non-dairy. However, a 2024 recall for single-serve items highlighted a risk of milk contamination in some batches, though multi-packs were unaffected.

It depends on the product. The Popsicle brand uses colors from natural sources like beet juice and spirulina. In contrast, the Jel Sert freezer pops contain artificial colors like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1.

The freezer pops often contain high fructose corn syrup as well as artificial, non-nutritive sweeteners, specifically sucralose and acesulfame potassium.

The Jel Sert version of Jolly Rancher ice pops is advertised as gluten-free. For the Popsicle brand and for those with severe sensitivities, it is always recommended to check the packaging and the manufacturer's website for the most current information.

The calorie count per pop is generally low. The Popsicle Jolly Rancher ice pops contain around 35-40 calories per pop, while other versions may be different.

Some Jolly Rancher products, specifically the freezer pops that are stored unfrozen, include preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate to ensure a long shelf life before they are frozen by the consumer.