What Sweetener is in Sugar-Free Jelly Bellies?

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

Jelly Belly's sugar-free formula contains 28% fewer calories than their regular jelly beans. The primary sugar substitutes used to achieve this reduction are Maltitol, Maltitol syrup, and Sucralose (Splenda), providing a sweet treat without the sugar.

Quick Summary

Jelly Belly uses a combination of maltitol syrup, maltitol, and sucralose as sweeteners for its sugar-free jelly beans. This blend provides a sweet flavor with fewer calories but can cause digestive issues if consumed in excess.

Key Points

Primary Sweeteners: Sugar-free Jelly Bellies use a combination of maltitol syrup, maltitol, and sucralose to achieve a sugar-like sweetness.
Maltitol is a Sugar Alcohol: The bulk of the sweetness comes from maltitol, a sugar alcohol that is only partially absorbed by the body, contributing to fewer calories.
Excessive Consumption Warning: High intake of sugar alcohols like maltitol can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and a laxative effect.
Sucralose Adds High Sweetness: Sucralose (Splenda), a high-intensity artificial sweetener, is added to boost the overall sweetness profile without adding calories.
Lower Calorie Count: Sugar-free Jelly Bellies offer a lower-calorie alternative to the regular version, making them appealing to dieters and people with diabetes.

The Sweetener Blend in Sugar-Free Jelly Bellies

For those who love the classic flavor of Jelly Belly beans but need or prefer to avoid sugar, the sugar-free variety offers a tempting alternative. However, the sweet taste is not magic; it comes from a specific combination of sugar substitutes. Primarily, the sweetness is derived from Maltitol syrup, Maltitol, and Sucralose. Understanding these ingredients is key to appreciating both the flavor profile and potential effects of this popular candy.

Maltitol and Maltitol Syrup: The Sugar Alcohols

Maltitol and its liquid form, Maltitol syrup, are sugar alcohols used extensively in sugar-free products. They provide a sweetness level close to that of table sugar but contain significantly fewer calories because they are not completely absorbed by the body. This incomplete absorption is what makes them popular with calorie-conscious consumers and those managing blood sugar levels, as their impact on blood glucose is lower compared to sugar.

Potential Gastrointestinal Effects

The most important consideration with Maltitol is its potential for a laxative effect, particularly when consumed in excess. The 'sugar alcohol' part of the name refers to their chemical structure, not that they contain alcohol. Because they are only partially digested, the unabsorbed portion ferments in the large intestine. This can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea, as clearly stated on the product packaging. Individual tolerance varies, and starting with a small amount is recommended.

Sucralose: The High-Intensity Sweetener

Sucralose, sold under the brand name Splenda, is an artificial, high-intensity sweetener. It is significantly sweeter than sugar and, unlike Maltitol, is non-caloric and not a sugar alcohol. Sucralose is responsible for boosting the overall sweetness of the sugar-free Jelly Bellies without adding extra calories. When combined with Maltitol, it helps create a robust, sugar-like flavor profile that many consumers find appealing. Unlike sugar alcohols, Sucralose is not known for causing significant gastrointestinal distress, though it has been a subject of research regarding its long-term effects on gut microbiota.

Comparison: Sugar-Free vs. Regular Jelly Bellies


Feature	Sugar-Free Jelly Bellies	Regular Jelly Bellies
Sweeteners	Maltitol, Maltitol Syrup, Sucralose	Sugar, Corn Syrup
Calories	Fewer per serving (e.g., ~80 kcal/30g)	More per serving (e.g., ~110 kcal/30g)
Carbohydrates	Lower net carbs due to sugar alcohols	Higher total carbohydrates
Side Effects	Potential laxative effect with excessive consumption	No laxative effect, but can cause sugar spikes
Dental Impact	Non-cariogenic (does not promote tooth decay)	Can contribute to tooth decay
Taste Profile	Very similar to regular, but some notice a slight difference	Classic, sugary taste

The Ingredient List Breakdown

For a full picture, it's helpful to look at a typical ingredient list from a package of sugar-free Jelly Bellies:

Maltitol Syrup: The base sweetener and bulking agent.
Maltitol: Another sugar alcohol providing sweetness.
Modified Food Starch: Adds texture and chewiness.
Sucralose: Provides high-intensity sweetness.
Natural and Artificial Flavors: Gives each bean its distinct flavor.
Citric Acid: Adds sourness and helps with preservation.
Color Added: Artificial colorings to give the beans their iconic look.
Glazes (Beeswax, Carnauba Wax, Confectioner's Glaze): Gives the beans their shiny outer coating.

Navigating the Sugar-Free Experience

It is important to manage expectations and consumption of sugar-free products. While they are a great alternative for many, they are not a 'free-for-all' indulgence. The warning about the laxative effect is not to be taken lightly. As with any food, moderation is key, especially when dealing with sugar substitutes that are not fully absorbed by the body.

Conclusion

In summary, the sweet taste of sugar-free Jelly Bellies comes from a carefully formulated blend of Maltitol, Maltitol syrup, and Sucralose. This combination successfully mimics the experience of eating traditional jelly beans but with a lower caloric and glycemic impact. While this is a welcome innovation for those managing their sugar intake, it's crucial to be mindful of the potential digestive side effects of the sugar alcohols. Enjoying these candies in moderation allows one to appreciate the flavor without experiencing discomfort. As the market for sugar-free options continues to grow, understanding the specific ingredients provides a clearer picture of what you're consuming.

For additional information on sugar alcohols and their effects, you can visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary sweeteners in sugar-free Jelly Bellies are Maltitol syrup and Maltitol, which are sugar alcohols, combined with Sucralose (Splenda), a high-intensity artificial sweetener.

The sugar alcohols, particularly Maltitol, are not fully absorbed by the body. Excessive consumption can cause fermentation in the large intestine, which leads to gas, bloating, and a laxative effect.

Individual tolerance varies, but Jelly Belly warns that excessive consumption may cause a laxative effect. It is suggested to start with a small amount, such as eight beans or fewer, to assess your tolerance.

Sugar-free Jelly Bellies are often considered a better option for people with diabetes than regular candy because the sweeteners have a lower glycemic index. However, it is important to monitor consumption due to the potential digestive side effects and to consult with a doctor.

Yes, Sucralose is an artificial, high-intensity sweetener. It is calorie-free and is used alongside maltitol to provide a robust sweet flavor in sugar-free Jelly Bellies.

The flavor is very similar, but some consumers may notice a slight difference in the taste or texture compared to regular, sugar-based Jelly Bellies. The combination of sweeteners is formulated to closely match the original taste.

The main differences are the sweeteners used, the calorie count, and the potential side effects. Regular versions use sugar and corn syrup, while the sugar-free ones use maltitol and sucralose, resulting in lower calories but with a risk of digestive discomfort if eaten in excess.

Yes, according to Jelly Belly's product information, their sugar-free jelly beans are gluten-free, along with being fat-free, peanut-free, and dairy-free.