Gummy bears are a beloved treat for many, but have you ever stopped to wonder what’s really in them?
Traditional gummy bears are often made with high-fructose corn syrup and other refined sugars, which can be unhealthy and even dangerous for those with diabetes.
But fear not, there are alternatives! Vegan gummy bears, for example, use agar-agar powder or soluble fiber from tapioca instead of gelatin and are often lower in sugar.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of other ingredients commonly found in gummies, such as citric acid, corn syrup, artificial flavors, and food colorings.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients in gummy bears and explore healthier options for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Do Gummy Bears Have High Fructose Corn Syrup In Them?
Yes, traditional gummy bears often contain high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener. This type of corn syrup is processed to become a clear syrup that is high in glucose and sometimes chemically or enzymatically processed to become even sweeter with fructose.
While corn syrup itself is not necessarily harmful, consuming too much of it can lead to negative health effects, such as weight gain and increased risk of diabetes. It’s important to consume products with corn syrup in moderation and be aware of other sources of refined sugars in your diet.
The History Of Gummy Bears And Their Ingredients
Gummy bears have a rich history that dates back to the early 1920s in Bonn, Germany. Hans Riegel Sr., a confectioner, created the first gummy bear candy by combining sugar, natural gum or gelatin, and fruit flavors. This combination of ingredients was revolutionary at the time and made the fruity chewy candy an instant favorite among both children and adults.
While gummy candies such as Turkish delight (made with starch) or Japanese rice candy (made with rice) had been around before Hans Riegel Sr.’s time, it was through his invention of the gelatin-based gummy that made the gummy bear candy so popular. The use of gelatin allowed for a chewier texture and longer shelf life, making it easier to produce and distribute.
Over time, gummy bear candy production has evolved to include a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Today, gummy bears are available in twelve different flavors, including cherry, strawberry, lemon, apple, orange, mango, grapefruit, watermelon, lime, blue raspberry, grape, and pineapple. They can also be dipped in sour sugar and molded into any shape imaginable.
While the original gummy bear recipe used natural gum or gelatin as a binder and sweetener, many modern gummy bear candies contain high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener. This type of corn syrup is processed to become a clear syrup that is high in glucose and sometimes chemically or enzymatically processed to become even sweeter with fructose.
Consumers should be aware of the ingredients in their gummy bear candies and consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While gummy bears may not be the healthiest snack option available, they can still be enjoyed as an occasional treat.
The Dangers Of High-Fructose Corn Syrup And Refined Sugars
High-fructose corn syrup is commonly used in processed foods and beverages because it is cheaper and sweeter than regular sugar. However, consuming too much of it can lead to numerous health problems. Studies have shown that high consumption of high-fructose corn syrup can lead to insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
When high-fructose corn syrup is processed in the body, the fructose goes straight to the liver and is converted into fat with other toxic wastes causing a trickle effect of negative side effects. This can lead to a fatty liver, hypertension, and heart disease. In addition, fructose blocks the brain from being able to see leptin which tells you that you’re full, leading to overeating and weight gain.
Refined sugars, such as those found in traditional gummy bears, are also harmful when consumed in excess. They can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of diabetes. It’s important to limit your intake of refined sugars and choose healthier alternatives.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to traditional gummy bears that are lower in refined sugars and high-fructose corn syrup. Vegan gummy bears, for example, use agar-agar powder or soluble fiber from tapioca instead of gelatin and are often lower in sugar. Sugar-free options also exist but should be consumed in moderation due to potential side effects from sugar substitutes such as lycasin.
Vegan Gummy Bears: A Healthier Alternative
For those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional gummy bears, vegan gummy bears are a great option. Vegan gummies remove gelatin as an ingredient and replace it with agar-agar powder or soluble fiber from tapioca. These ingredients provide the same texture as traditional gummies but without the unhealthy amounts of refined sugars.
In addition to being low in sugar, many vegan gummy bear brands also use real fruit juice and no artificial flavors or colors. Some even offer 100% of your daily dose of vitamin C per serving. Brands like Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks and Trader Joe’s Organic Vegan Gummy Bears are committed to using high-quality ingredients and avoiding harmful additives.
When shopping for vegan gummy bears, it’s important to check the label and make sure they are made with pectin instead of gelatin. Pectin is a vegan gelling agent derived from plants, commonly found in citrus fruits. By choosing vegan gummies made with pectin, you can enjoy a sweet treat without compromising your dietary restrictions or health goals.
Other Ingredients To Watch Out For In Gummy Bears
Apart from high-fructose corn syrup, there are other ingredients to watch out for in gummy bears. These include citric acid, corn syrup, artificial flavors, and artificial food color.
Citric acid is a common ingredient found in many gummy bears. It is used to preserve the ingredients, boost acidity, and enhance the flavor. While citric acid derived from natural sources such as citrus fruits is safe, manufactured citric acid used as a food additive can also be found in cleaning agents and nutritional supplements.
Corn syrup is another ingredient that is commonly found in gummy bears. It is extracted from corn and processed to become a clear syrup that is high in glucose. While it is not as harmful as high-fructose corn syrup, it is still a refined sugar that should be consumed in moderation.
Gummies use both natural and artificial fruit flavors. Artificial flavors are flavorings added to our food that are not extracted from organic sources such as plants or animals. While there are no reported significant health risks associated with taking in these artificial flavors, some people prefer to avoid them.
Artificial food color is also added to gummy bears to make the colors pop and look more appetizing. However, some food colors and dyes have been banned from certain countries due to research findings that highlight their potential to cause allergic reactions, tumors, and cancers. These banned food dyes include Blue 2, Green 3, Yellow 3, Yellow 6, and Red 3.
It’s important to read the labels of your favorite gummy snacks carefully and be aware of these potential hidden ingredients. Opting for vegan gummy bears made with natural ingredients can be a healthier alternative that still satisfies your sweet tooth without all the guilt.
Healthier Options For Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth
If you’re looking for healthier options to satisfy your sweet tooth, there are plenty of alternatives to high-sugar treats like gummy bears. Here are some ideas:
1. Fresh Fruit: Instead of reaching for candy, try snacking on fresh fruit like watermelon, apples, or pears. These natural sources of sugar will satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients.
2. Dark Chocolate: If you’re craving chocolate, opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao. This type of chocolate contains antioxidants and polyphenols that can curb sugar cravings and provide other health benefits.
3. Sweet Vegetables: Sweet-tasting vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and carrots can also be a great option when you’re craving something sugary. Roasting these veggies can enhance their natural sweetness while also providing fiber and other nutrients.
4. Homemade Treats: Instead of buying sugary snacks from the store, try making your own treats at home using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This way, you can control the amount of sugar in your snacks and use healthier ingredients.
5. Low-Sugar Peanut Butter: Instead of reaching for a candy bar or sugary snack, try eating a spoonful of low-sugar peanut butter. This will give you a sweet taste while also providing healthy fats and protein.
6. Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can also help satisfy your sweet tooth without adding extra sugar to your diet. Gum that contains xylitol can even reduce the risk of cavities and promote oral health.
By incorporating these healthier options into your diet, you can still enjoy sweet treats without compromising your health. Remember to consume these alternatives in moderation and be aware of other sources of refined sugars in your diet.
