What are the ingredients in Starburst singles to go?

December 19, 2025 •

2 min read

Unlike the chewy candy, Starburst Singles To Go are sugar-free and low-calorie, which means their formulation is fundamentally different. The core ingredients include a mix of artificial sweeteners, acids, and maltodextrin to achieve that familiar fruity flavor in a powdered drink mix format.

Quick Summary

A detailed look at the core and flavor-specific components found in Starburst Singles To Go powdered drink mixes, which primarily use artificial sweeteners and additives instead of sugar.

Key Points

Artificial Sweeteners: Starburst Singles To Go primarily use Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium, and sometimes Sucralose instead of sugar.
Low Calorie: The drink mixes are sugar-free and have only about 5 calories per serving, making them significantly lower in calories than the original candy.
Common Acids: Citric Acid is a standard ingredient for creating tartness, with Malic Acid sometimes included in specific flavors like Cherry.
Flavor Carriers: Maltodextrin acts as a bulking and carrying agent for the flavors and sweeteners in the powdered mix.
Warning for PKU: Due to the presence of Aspartame, products carry a warning for individuals with Phenylketonuria (PKU).
Distinct from Candy: The ingredient list is vastly different from that of original Starburst chews, which contain sugar, corn syrup, and fruit juice.

The Core Composition of Starburst Singles To Go

Starburst Singles To Go is a sugar-free, low-calorie powdered drink mix. Its taste and consistency come from a blend of ingredients including artificial sweeteners, acids, maltodextrin, and flavorings.

Sweeteners: Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium provide sweetness without calories. Some flavors might contain Sucralose. A Phenylketonuria warning is included due to Aspartame.
Acidity Regulators: Citric Acid is used for tartness, and some flavors also include Malic Acid.
Flavoring: A combination of natural and artificial flavors mimics the candy's taste.
Bulking Agent: Maltodextrin helps distribute flavors and sweeteners.
Minerals: Magnesium Oxide and Monocalcium Phosphate are flow or anti-caking agents.
Coloring: Artificial colors like Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 are used for vibrant colors, varying by flavor.

Flavor-Specific Ingredients

Specific ingredients, particularly coloring and some flavor blends, vary between Starburst Singles To Go flavors. While core components are shared, the exact composition differs based on the intended fruit taste. You can find detailed ingredient lists for various flavors on the product packaging or manufacturer's website.

Comparison Table: Starburst Singles To Go vs. Original Candy


Feature	Starburst Singles To Go	Original Starburst Candy
Sweeteners	Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose	Sugar, Corn Syrup
Calories	5 per serving	240 per 2.07 oz pack
Sugar Content	Zero sugar	33g per 2.07 oz pack
Carbohydrates	2g per serving	49g per 2.07 oz pack
Flavoring	Natural and Artificial Flavors	Fruit Juice from Concentrate, Natural and Artificial Flavors
Format	Powdered mix to add to water	Chewy, individually-wrapped squares

The Role of Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are key to Starburst Singles To Go's low-calorie profile. Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium are common choices, with some flavors also including Sucralose. It's important to note the Aspartame content for individuals with Phenylketonuria (PKU).

Understanding Other Additives

Maltodextrin functions as a carrier for flavors and sweeteners. Magnesium Oxide and Monocalcium Phosphate prevent clumping. Artificial colors provide the vibrant look associated with the flavors.

The Jel Sert Company's Role

Starburst Singles To Go are produced by The Jel Sert Company under license, explaining the difference in ingredients from Mars' original candy. For the most current ingredient information, consult the packaging or Jel Sert's website.

Conclusion

Starburst Singles To Go provide a sugar-free, low-calorie alternative to the original candy, utilizing artificial sweeteners, acids, flavors, and colors. The key ingredients like Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium, citric acid, and artificial colors are listed on the packaging. Consumers, especially those with dietary considerations like PKU or sugar intake monitoring, should review the ingredient list carefully.

Visit The Jel Sert Company Website for more product information.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary sweeteners are Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium, which provide a sweet flavor without adding sugar or significant calories.

Yes, Starburst Singles To Go are explicitly marketed as zero-sugar, low-calorie water enhancers.

While the core ingredients are similar, there are slight variations, particularly in the specific flavors and artificial colors used. Some flavors may also include additional ingredients like salt or Sucralose.

Yes, a warning for Phenylketonurics is included on products containing Aspartame, indicating it contains Phenylalanine.

Maltodextrin is a starch-based food additive that serves as a bulking agent. It helps carry the flavor and sweeteners and keeps the powdered mix from clumping.

The main difference is the sweetener base. The drink mix uses artificial sweeteners, while the original candy uses sugar and corn syrup. This results in the drink mix being sugar-free and significantly lower in calories.

The product uses a combination of both natural and artificial flavors to achieve the desired taste profile.