A Sweet Showdown: Skittles vs. M&M's
When faced with a bowl of classic candies, many people wonder: what has more sugar, Skittles or M&M's? While both are undeniably sugary treats, a closer look at their nutritional makeup reveals a clear winner—or loser, depending on your perspective. The answer lies not only in the gram-for-gram comparison but also in how the different ingredients affect your body. Skittles, with their fruit-flavored coating and chewy center, are a near-perfect example of pure sugar delivery, while M&M's, built around a milk chocolate core, offer a slightly more complex nutritional profile.
The Nutritional Discrepancy: Sugar Density
To truly understand the difference, it's crucial to look at the candies on a standardized basis, such as per 100 grams, as serving sizes can vary widely. Based on standard nutritional information, Skittles are around 92% pure sugar by weight. In contrast, Milk Chocolate M&M's are composed of chocolate, sugar, and other ingredients, which lowers their overall sugar percentage per 100g to around 63.5%. This sugar density is the fundamental reason why Skittles pack a more intense sugar punch, even in similar-sized portions.
Skittles: A Fast Track to a Sugar Rush
Skittles are defined by their vibrant, fruity shell and chewy interior. A quick glance at the ingredients confirms what the nutrition label suggests: they are primarily sugar and corn syrup. Because they contain virtually no fat or protein, the sugar they contain is absorbed very quickly by the body. This rapid absorption leads to a pronounced spike in blood sugar levels, which can provide a quick energy boost but is often followed by a crash. For those with diabetes or who are sensitive to blood sugar fluctuations, this effect is a significant consideration. The lack of fat and protein also means Skittles are often referred to as 'empty calories'—they provide energy but none of the essential nutrients your body needs.
M&M's: A Slightly Slower Sweet
Original Milk Chocolate M&M's have a candy shell, but their core is milk chocolate, which contains milk, fat, and a small amount of protein. These ingredients play a critical role in how the body processes the candy. The fat and protein in the milk chocolate slow down the digestion and absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. While M&M's still cause a rise in blood sugar, it is generally less abrupt and sustained than the spike caused by Skittles. This more gradual release can help mitigate the severe energy crash associated with purely sugary snacks. Although M&M's contain more fat than Skittles, they offer a tiny amount of protein and calcium, giving them a slight edge in nutritional complexity.
Skittles vs. M&M's: A Side-by-Side Nutrition Comparison
To make a direct comparison, here are the nutritional facts for a typical serving of each candy.
| Feature | Skittles (Original) | M&M's (Milk Chocolate) |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1.8 oz (51g) | 1.5 oz (42.5g) |
| Sugar per Serving | 47 g | 27 g |
| Sugar per 100g | ~92 g | ~64 g |
| Calories per Serving | 251 | 210 |
| Fat per Serving | 3 g | 9 g |
| Protein per Serving | 0.1 g | 2 g |
Beyond Sugar: Other Key Differences
While sugar is the main topic of comparison, other factors differentiate these two candies.
- Ingredients: Skittles' ingredient list prominently features sugar and corn syrup, along with artificial colors and flavors. M&M's contain a more diverse set of ingredients, including milk chocolate (sugar, chocolate, skim milk, cocoa butter).
- Glycemic Index: The high sugar concentration and lack of fat and protein give Skittles a higher glycemic index. This means they will cause a quicker and more significant rise in blood sugar compared to M&M's, which have a lower glycemic index due to their fat and protein content.
- Dental Health: Both candies pose a risk to dental health due to their high sugar content, but Skittles' chewy texture can cause them to stick to teeth for longer, potentially increasing the risk of cavities.
- Artificial Dyes: Both products use artificial food dyes to achieve their bright colors, though Skittles are more known for their vibrant rainbow. Concerns have been raised about artificial dyes and their links to hyperactivity in children, though further research is ongoing.
The Final Verdict: Which is the Lesser of Two Evils?
When it comes to a health-conscious choice, neither Skittles nor M&M's is a healthy option, as both are processed candies high in added sugars. However, if forced to choose based on sugar content, M&M's are technically the 'better' option due to their lower sugar density and the fact that the fat and protein from the milk chocolate help to slow sugar absorption. This results in a less dramatic blood sugar response compared to Skittles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the question of what has more sugar, Skittles or M&M's, is definitively answered: Skittles contain more sugar per gram and per serving. This is because Skittles are a fat-free, sugar-and-syrup-based candy, whereas M&M's incorporate milk chocolate, which dilutes the sugar concentration with fat and protein. While M&M's have a higher fat content, the presence of these macronutrients leads to a more gradual absorption of sugar. The best strategy for either candy is to enjoy them in moderation and be mindful of serving sizes as part of a balanced diet. For more information on recommended daily sugar intake, consult reputable health organizations like the American Heart Association.
