Are you looking for a sweet treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty about what you’re putting into your body?
With Halloween just around the corner, it can be tough to resist the temptation of all the sugary snacks that come with the holiday. But fear not, there are options out there that won’t leave you feeling like you’ve completely derailed your healthy eating habits.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best candy options that contain no high fructose corn syrup, artificial preservatives or flavors, and are made from non-GMO ingredients.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals.
What Candy Has No High Fructose Corn Syrup?
When it comes to candy, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a common ingredient that many people try to avoid. HFCS has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues, making it a less-than-ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
But fear not, there are plenty of candy options out there that don’t contain HFCS. Here are some of our top picks:
1. Hershey’s Simply 5 Syrup: This chocolate syrup is made with non-GMO ingredients and contains no HFCS or artificial preservatives or flavors. It’s a classic ingredient in chocolate milk and ice cream sundaes.
2. Hershey’s Nuggets: These bite-sized chocolates come in a variety of flavors and contain no HFCS. Plus, they have less than 10 grams of sugar per serving, making them a better choice than some other candy options.
3. Kit Kat snack-size bar: This classic candy bar contains no HFCS and has only 7 grams of sugar per serving. Plus, the crispy wafer inside adds a satisfying crunch.
4. Peanut M&M’s fun-sized pack: These colorful candies are a fan favorite and contain no HFCS. Plus, they have only 9 grams of sugar per serving.
5. Theo’s peanut butter cups: If you’re looking for an organic option, these peanut butter cups are a great choice. They’re made with cocoa beans as the first ingredient and use rosemary extract to preserve the candy. Plus, they contain no HFCS or artificial ingredients.
What Is High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener that is commonly used in processed foods and beverages. It is made from corn starch that has been broken down into glucose by enzymes. To make HFCS, D-xylose isomerase is added to the corn syrup to convert some of the glucose into fructose. The resulting syrup contains varying amounts of fructose, depending on the formulation. HFCS 42 contains 42% fructose and HFCS 55 contains 55% fructose.
HFCS is often compared to granulated sugar, but it has some manufacturing advantages over sugar. For example, it is cheaper and easier to handle. HFCS 42 is typically used in processed foods and breakfast cereals, while HFCS 55 is primarily used in soft drinks.
Some people are concerned about the safety of HFCS and its potential health effects. However, the United States Food and Drug Administration states that it is not aware of any evidence showing that HFCS is less safe than traditional sweeteners like sucrose and honey. Nonetheless, many people choose to avoid HFCS and opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead.
The Health Risks Of High Fructose Corn Syrup
While there are plenty of candy options available that don’t contain high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), it’s important to understand why many people choose to avoid this ingredient. Studies have linked excessive consumption of HFCS to a variety of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
One study conducted by the University of California, Davis found that consuming sucrose and high fructose corn-sweetened beverages increased liver fat and decreased insulin sensitivity. Decreased insulin sensitivity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and significant changes in liver fat and insulin sensitivity were seen in just two weeks of consuming sugary beverages. The study also found that there were no significant differences between the effects of sucrose and those of high fructose corn syrup, and both increased risk factors compared with aspartame-sweetened beverages.
Excess fructose may also increase harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can harm cells. It may exacerbate inflammatory diseases like gout due to increased inflammation and uric acid production. Studies have also linked excessive HFCS intake to an increased risk of heart disease and reduced life expectancy.
HFCS has been shown to drive inflammation, which is associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Additionally, it contributes to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which affects over 90 million Americans. Excessive sugar intake is now the major cause of liver failure and the leading cause of liver transplants.
The Benefits Of Choosing Candy Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
Choosing candy without high fructose corn syrup can have a number of benefits for your health. HFCS has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues, so avoiding it can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle.
One of the main benefits of choosing candy without HFCS is that it often contains less sugar overall. Many candies that contain HFCS are also high in sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. By choosing candies without HFCS, you can reduce your overall sugar intake and make a healthier choice.
In addition, many candies without HFCS are made with natural sugars instead. Natural sugars are unrefined and unprocessed, so they don’t contain harmful chemicals or additives. This means that you can still enjoy your favorite candy without worrying about the negative effects of added sweeteners.
Finally, many candies without HFCS are also made with organic and non-GMO ingredients. This means that they are free from harmful pesticides and other chemicals that can be found in conventionally-grown crops. By choosing organic and non-GMO candies, you can support sustainable farming practices and make a healthier choice for yourself and the environment.
Top Candy Brands That Don’t Use High Fructose Corn Syrup
If you’re looking for even more candy options without HFCS, here are some top candy brands to consider:
1. Dove: Most varieties of Dove chocolates are reported to be free of high fructose corn syrup. With flavors like peanut butter, almond, and caramel, there’s something for everyone.
2. Unreal: This brand offers a variety of candy options without HFCS, including chocolate-covered peanuts, coconut bars, and peanut butter cups.
3. Justin’s: Known for their delicious nut butters, Justin’s also offers peanut butter cups and other candy options without HFCS.
4. YumEarth: This brand specializes in organic and natural candy options, including gummy bears, lollipops, and sour beans – all without HFCS.
5. Black Forest: This brand offers gummy bears and other fruity candies without HFCS or artificial colors or flavors.
By choosing candy brands that don’t use high fructose corn syrup, you can indulge in your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals.
DIY Candy Recipes Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
If you’re looking to make your own candy without HFCS, there are plenty of options available. One popular recipe is for homemade hard candy, which can be made with all-natural ingredients and without the use of dyes or artificial flavors.
To make your own hard candy, you’ll need sugar, water, and cream of tartar. Mix the sugar and cream of tartar together with the water in a medium saucepan over medium heat until dissolved. Then, heat the mixture up to 290 degrees Fahrenheit or until it forms a bead when a drop of cold water is added to it.
Once the candy has reached the desired level of cooking, you can add in any flavorings you like. Peppermint oil is a popular choice for its soothing properties, but feel free to experiment with other flavors as well.
To mold the candy into shapes, you can use candy molds that are available for purchase online or at craft stores. Simply pour the hot candy mixture into the molds and allow it to cool and harden before removing from the molds.
Making your own candy without HFCS can be a fun and rewarding process. With a little patience and experimentation, you can create delicious treats that are free from artificial ingredients and additives.
Conclusion: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Without Compromising Your Health
While candy may not be the healthiest option, there are plenty of alternatives that don’t contain high fructose corn syrup. By choosing candies made with natural ingredients and low sugar content, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health. Additionally, incorporating naturally sweet options like fruit can also provide a satisfying treat. It’s important to remember that moderation is key and to enjoy candy and other sweets in moderation as part of a balanced diet. By making informed choices, you can indulge in candy without guilt or negative health consequences.
