A detailed breakdown of Starburst ingredients
To understand the nutritional impact of Starburst candy, it is important to examine the ingredients listed on the packaging. The list primarily consists of processed components that contribute to the candy's signature chewy texture and intense fruity flavor. The composition can vary slightly depending on the country of manufacture.
The core list of Starburst ingredients
For Starburst Original Fruit Chews sold in the United States, the primary ingredients include corn syrup and sugar, which provide sweetness, and hydrogenated palm kernel oil for texture and shelf life. The candy also contains citric acid for tang, dextrin, and modified corn starch as thickeners, and natural and artificial flavors. Gelatin is also included for chewiness. Artificial colors such as Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1 are used for vibrant coloring, some of which have been noted for potential health concerns.
Gelatin: A key distinction for dietary needs
US Starburst candies contain animal-derived gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegetarian, vegan, halal, or kosher diets without specific certification. Gelatin comes from animal collagen. In contrast, UK Starbursts are gelatin-free, using palm fat and modified starch for texture, making them vegetarian-friendly.
The role of fats and additives
Hydrogenated palm kernel oil adds saturated fat to Starburst. The significant sugar and corn syrup content leads to high overall sugar, linked to health issues like tooth decay, obesity, and type 2 diabetes when consumed in excess. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) classifies Starburst as an unhealthy, ultra-processed food. Artificial dyes in US Starbursts are associated with potential health issues, particularly for children. Some formulations have also contained titanium dioxide, an additive banned in the EU. UK versions avoid these, using natural colors.
US vs. UK Starburst: a comparison of ingredients
The table below highlights the key differences in ingredient formulation between Starburst sold in the US and the UK.
| Ingredient Category | US Starburst Original | UK Starburst Original |
|---|---|---|
| Gelatin | Present (animal-derived) | Absent (vegetarian friendly) |
| Sweeteners | Corn Syrup, Sugar | Glucose Syrup, Sugar, Fruit Juices |
| Fat Source | Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil | Palm Fat |
| Artificial Colors | Yes (Red 40, Yellow 5, 6, Blue 1) | No (natural colors used) |
| Natural Flavors | Yes, but also artificial flavors | Yes, and some concentrated fruit juices |
Impact on a balanced nutrition diet
Starburst offers minimal nutritional value, being high in added sugars and saturated fats and lacking fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. It should be consumed as an occasional treat. Overconsumption of ultra-processed foods like Starburst is linked to increased health risks. Healthier alternatives with more natural ingredients and less processed sugars are available, such as organic fruit chews from brands like Lovely Candy Co. and Wholesome, which are plant-based and lack artificial dyes.
Conclusion: the Starburst ingredient summary
The ingredients in Starburst reflect its nature as a processed, sugary candy. It provides flavor but has significant nutritional drawbacks due to high sugar, saturated fat, and artificial additives. The use of gelatin in the US version is a key dietary consideration, making it unsuitable for certain diets. Differences in ingredients between international markets demonstrate that the composition is a manufacturing choice. Knowing what ingredients do Starbursts have allows consumers to make better choices for their nutrition diet, opting for more wholesome alternatives when possible.
