M&M's vs. Skittles: The Great Candy Debate
When a sugar craving strikes, it's a common dilemma: the rich, chocolatey goodness of M&Ms or the tangy, fruity explosion of Skittles? While both are undeniably treats with limited nutritional value, a deeper look at their composition reveals some interesting differences. For those aiming to be mindful of their diet, understanding these distinctions can help make a more informed choice, especially when consumed in moderation.
The Foundational Differences: Ingredients and Type
The most significant difference between these two iconic candies lies in their core ingredients. M&Ms are a chocolate-based confection, using milk chocolate (or other varieties like dark or peanut butter) as the primary filling, encased in a hard candy shell. Skittles, on the other hand, are a sugar-based, chewy, fruit-flavored candy. This fundamental difference in their base impacts everything from their flavor profile to their nutritional composition.
Skittles ingredients often include sugar, corn syrup, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, citric acid, and artificial flavors and colors. In contrast, Milk Chocolate M&Ms contain milk chocolate, which itself is made from sugar, chocolate, cocoa butter, and milk. They also contain cornstarch, corn syrup, and various colorings. While both rely on a heavy dose of sugar, the presence of chocolate and milkfat in M&Ms and the specific mix of sugars and oils in Skittles give them unique properties.
Comparing Nutritional Values: A Detailed Table
To directly compare, let's look at the average nutritional information for standard, snack-sized servings of Milk Chocolate M&Ms and Original Skittles.
| Nutritional Aspect | Milk Chocolate M&Ms (approx. 1.5 oz) | Original Skittles (approx. 1.5 oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 | ~170 |
| Total Fat | ~9g | ~1.5g |
| Saturated Fat | ~5.5g | ~1.5g |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~29g | ~38g |
| Sugar | ~27g | ~33g |
| Protein | ~2g | ~0g |
Note: Serving sizes and specific nutritional content can vary by region and product variation. This table represents general estimations for comparison.
As the table illustrates, a serving of Skittles typically has fewer calories and significantly less fat, particularly saturated fat, compared to Milk Chocolate M&Ms. However, Skittles usually contain more total sugar and carbohydrates. M&Ms offer a small amount of protein and a touch of calcium from the milk chocolate, which Skittles completely lack. For those focused purely on fat intake, Skittles appear to be the better option. For those more concerned with total sugar, M&Ms might be the marginal winner, but again, this depends heavily on the specific serving and product variety.
The Quality of Ingredients and Potential Benefits
Beyond the basic nutritional numbers, the type of candy can influence its effect on your body. For example, some chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains antioxidants that may offer minor health benefits when consumed in moderation. While milk chocolate M&Ms have a much lower cocoa content than dark chocolate, they still contain small amounts of cocoa solids. Conversely, Skittles and other fruity candies are essentially pure sugar with artificial flavoring and coloring, offering no real redeeming nutritional value.
Some research suggests that protein and fat, like that found in Peanut M&Ms, can help slow the body's absorption of sugar, leading to a less dramatic blood sugar spike and crash compared to high-sugar, low-fat candies like Skittles,. This, in theory, might make the consumption of M&Ms feel more 'sustained' than the quick, intense rush and subsequent crash from Skittles.
The Role of Mindful Eating and Moderation
Regardless of which candy you prefer, the most important nutritional consideration is moderation. Both M&Ms and Skittles are high in calories and sugar and should be consumed as occasional treats, not staples of a diet. A mindful eating approach can help manage cravings and prevent overindulgence.
Here are some mindful eating tips for sweets:
- Choose your favorite. Instead of mindlessly eating whatever is available, be intentional about which candy you truly crave and will enjoy most.
- Plate your treats. Pouring a small portion into a bowl instead of eating directly from the bag can help control portion size and increase awareness of what you're consuming.
- Savor each piece. Pay attention to the taste, texture, and how each bite feels. Eating slowly can increase satisfaction and make you less likely to overeat.
- Balance is key. Enjoy your treat, then get back to nutrient-dense foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help manage sugar cravings long-term.
Ultimately, whether M&Ms are 'better' than Skittles depends on what you are optimizing for. If low fat is the goal, Skittles win. If a slightly lower sugar content and a smidge of protein are preferred, M&Ms might be the choice. For overall health, neither can be considered truly 'better' than the other as they are both processed sugar-laden treats. The best choice is the one you enjoy most, in moderation.
Conclusion: Enjoying Treats Intelligently
In the nutrition diet showdown between M&Ms and Skittles, there's no single victor. The 'better' candy is subjective and depends on individual dietary goals and preferences. M&Ms contain more fat and slightly less sugar, while Skittles are lower in fat but higher in sugar. Both are high in calories and should be consumed sparingly. Rather than focusing on which is 'healthier', the focus should be on mindful consumption and ensuring these treats don't displace more nutritious, whole foods in your diet. The healthiest approach is to enjoy your chosen candy in a small, pre-portioned serving as an occasional delight, rather than a regular habit. For more information on limiting added sugars, resources like the CDC's guidelines are invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do M&Ms and Skittles have the same number of calories?
No, a standard serving size of M&Ms generally contains more calories than a comparable serving of Skittles due to the fat content from the chocolate.
Which candy has more sugar?
A serving of Original Skittles often contains more total sugar than a standard serving of Milk Chocolate M&Ms.
Is one candy healthier than the other?
From a nutritional perspective, neither candy is 'healthy' and both are high in sugar and calories. Any potential benefits from the chocolate in M&Ms are minimal, and Skittles offer none. The healthier option is moderation.
Are M&Ms or Skittles better for dental health?
M&Ms are generally considered slightly better for dental health. Because they are chocolate-based, they melt and wash away more easily than the sticky, chewy Skittles, which can cling to teeth and increase the risk of cavities.
What is the primary ingredient in Skittles?
The main ingredients in Skittles are sugar and corn syrup.
Do M&Ms contain any protein?
Yes, Milk Chocolate M&Ms contain a small amount of protein (around 2g per serving) due to the milk chocolate content, which is lacking in Skittles.
How can I enjoy candy responsibly?
The best way to enjoy candy responsibly is through mindful eating, controlling portion sizes, and consuming it as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
