Gummi bears offer a fat-free alternative to other traditional chocolate bars and candies. Their bright coloring and bite-sized design makes them a top choice for kids, or anyone looking for a sweet treat. Despite their low-fat status however, gummi bears contain relatively few nutrients, and people should consume them in moderation.
Nutrition
Ten gummi bears weigh in at about 22 g and contain 87 calories, according to TheCalorieCount.com. Gummi bears have no fat or cholesterol, and contain less than 10 mg of sodium. They have no protein or fiber, and include nearly 22 g of carbohydrates, with 13 of these coming from sugar. They typically contain no vitamins or minerals. Gummi bears vary by manufacturer, so check the label before consuming these candies to confirm the nutritional content.
Ingredients
Gummi bears, like most gummi candies, consist primarily of sugar, corn syrups and other sweeteners. They may also include gelatin, citric acid and a variety of flavors and colorings.
Dietary Concerns
For those on a low-fat diet, Ohio State University Medical Center recommends Gummi bears as an occasional treat, and suggests a serving of 10 bears, with fewer than 100 calories, as a snack. For diabetics and those on a low-carbohydrate or low-sugar diet, sugar-free gummi bears may offer an effective alternative to sugar-filled candies. Vegetarian or vegan consumers should look for gummi bears made from plant-based gelatin rather than the traditional animal-based varieties.
Gummi Vitamins
Some top-selling vitamin products today take the form of the traditional gummi bear. In fact, it can be difficult to distinguish between gummi bear candy and bears designed to serve as multivitamins. The University of Arkansas Department of Agriculture warns parents to beware of the danger of accidental poisoning by children who mistake these vitamins for candy, particularly with vitamins enriched with iron.
Gummy Novelties
While a small serving of gummi bears may provide a reasonably low-calorie treat, some novelty products can easily ruin your diet. Chocolate-covered gummi bears have a much higher calorie count and fat content than standard gummies.
According to NBC News Chicago, a North Carolina candy maker produces a gummi bear that's 5.5 inches high and contains the same amount of candy as 1,400 standard bears. It has 12,000 calories.
References
- TheCalorieCounter.com: Gummy Bears
- BMC Oral Health; Xylitol Gummy Bear Snacks-A School-based Randomized Clinical Trial; July 2008
- NBC Chicago: The World's Largest Gummi Bear Weighs 5 Pounds
- Ohio State University Medical Center: 100 Snacks With 100 Calories or Less
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Candy or Poison?
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