Main Sweeteners in Brach's Sugar-Free Cinnamon Hard Candy
The primary ingredients that give Brach's hard candies their sweetness without using traditional sugar are polyols, or sugar alcohols, combined with a high-intensity artificial sweetener. The main components are isomalt and maltitol syrup, which form the bulk and texture of the candy.
Isomalt
Isomalt is a sugar alcohol derived from beet sugar. It is known for its mild, clean sweetness and provides the body and texture characteristic of hard candy. A key benefit of isomalt is its low hygroscopicity, meaning it does not readily absorb moisture from the air, which helps prevent the candy from becoming sticky and extends its shelf life. For these reasons, isomalt is widely used in the confectionery industry for sugar-free products.
Maltitol Syrup
Alongside isomalt, maltitol syrup is another sugar alcohol that acts as a bulking agent and sweetener. Maltitol provides a texture and taste similar to sugar, and like other polyols, it has a lower caloric content compared to sucrose. However, as noted on some product labels, excessive consumption of both isomalt and maltitol can have a laxative effect.
Sucralose (Splenda Brand)
To achieve a sweetness level comparable to traditional sugar candies, Brach's uses a high-intensity sweetener called sucralose, marketed under the brand name Splenda. Sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed. It is stable under heat, making it suitable for candy manufacturing. Sucralose is blended with the milder polyols to create a balanced, sweet flavor profile.
Additional Ingredients for Flavor, Color, and Consistency
In addition to the core sweeteners, several other ingredients are necessary to create the final hard candy product.
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: These are responsible for the distinct cinnamon taste. The use of both 'natural' and 'artificial' flavors indicates that the cinnamon taste is achieved through a combination of compounds extracted from natural sources and others created in a laboratory.
- Red 40 and Blue 1: These are certified synthetic food dyes used to give the candies their vibrant red color. Red 40 is a common petroleum-derived dye, and while approved by the FDA, some consumers express concerns about artificial food colors. Some Brach's labels may also list Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, depending on the specific product formulation.
Comparison of Brach's Hard Candy Formulations
| Feature | Brach's Sugar-Free Cinnamon | Brach's Traditional Cinnamon |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | Isomalt, Maltitol Syrup, Sucralose (Splenda) | Sugar (Sucrose), Corn Syrup |
| Coloring | Artificial dyes (Red 40, Blue 1) | Artificial dyes (Red 40, Blue 1) or natural alternatives |
| Calories | 35 calories per 3 pieces (17g) | Higher calorie count from sugar and corn syrup |
| Carbohydrates | 17g carbohydrates, with 0g from sugar | Higher carbohydrate count, primarily from sugar |
| Gastrointestinal Effect | Possible laxative effect with excessive consumption due to polyols | No noted laxative effect |
A Deeper Look at Sugar Alcohols
Sugar alcohols like isomalt and maltitol are not metabolized by the body in the same way as sugar. While they do provide some calories (about 2-3 kcal/g), they are not completely absorbed by the small intestine. The unabsorbed portion travels to the large intestine, where it is fermented by gut bacteria. For most people, this is not an issue, but for individuals sensitive to polyols, it can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas, bloating, and a laxative effect. The warning on Brach's packaging is a direct result of this potential side effect. It is a good practice to consume these candies in moderation, especially if you are not accustomed to sugar-free alternatives.
Conclusion
The ingredients in Brach's sugar-free cinnamon hard candy primarily consist of isomalt and maltitol syrup for bulk and texture, with sucralose providing intense sweetness. Natural and artificial flavors deliver the signature cinnamon taste, and artificial food colorings like Red 40 give the candy its appearance. The sugar-free formulation is achieved by replacing traditional sugar with these sugar alcohols and high-intensity sweeteners, offering a lower-calorie alternative. Understanding these ingredients allows consumers to make informed dietary choices, particularly concerning potential gastrointestinal effects from polyol consumption. For detailed nutritional information, always consult the specific product label or visit the manufacturer's website.
What are the ingredients in Brach's sugar-free cinnamon hard candy?
The main ingredients are isomalt, maltitol syrup, natural and artificial flavors, Red 40, Blue 1, and sucralose (Splenda).
What are the ingredients in Brach's sugar-free cinnamon hard candy?
The main ingredients are isomalt, maltitol syrup, natural and artificial flavors, Red 40, Blue 1, and sucralose (Splenda).
