Written by Selina
Modified & Updated: 11 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of indulging in a packet of Sour Patch Kids, then you are well acquainted with the unique taste journey they offer – an initial sour punch followed by a comforting sweet sensation, much like sour Skittles. Originating in the 1970s, Sour Patch Kids has grown into a candy empire beloved by children and adults alike. That said, its nutritional facts may be startling news. Join us as we unwrap 15 Sour Patch Kids nutrition facts that every candy aficionado should know. But first, let’s look at the ingredients in these little sour kids.
How Are Sour Patch Kids Made?
Sour Patch is made from simple ingredients: sugar, inverted sugar, corn syrup, modified corn starch, tartaric acid, citric acid, natural and artificial flavoring, and the food colors yellow 6, red 40, yellow 5, and blue 1.
The addictive sour taste of Sour Patch Kids comes from tartaric acid and citric acid dusted on the sugar coating. These acids react with the saliva on the tongue, creating a strong sour flavor before the sweetness under the sugar coating is released to produce that pleasantly sweet taste.
Caloric Content
In a box of Sour Patch Kids, the standard serving (about 12 pieces) contains approximately 110 calories. It’s not a significant amount, but remember, these are largely empty calories offering limited nutritional benefits.
Has High Sugar Levels
These delicious candies have a lot of sugar, contributing largely to the caloric content. One serving has about 24 grams of sugar, equivalent to 6 teaspoons. That is almost equivalent to the sugars in 8 oz. of Coca-Cola.
Carb Content
Sour Patch Kids are carbohydrate-dense, with around 27 grams of carbs per serving. These carbs come almost exclusively from sugars.
Protein Content
Sour Patch Kids are not a source of protein. This candy contains 0 grams of protein per serving.
Fat-Free Candy
Despite being high in sugar, Sour Patch Kids are fat-free. However, this doesn’t necessarily make them a healthy choice, as their high sugar content can still contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.
Zero Dietary Fiber
Sour Patch Kids do not provide any dietary fiber, the mineral responsible for gut health and controlling blood sugars. We’d recommend adding different types of beans, leafy vegetables, and fruits into your diet to reach the recommended daily value of fiber.
Sodium Level
Sour Patch Kids contain a negligible amount of sodium. One serving has about 25 mg of sodium.
Gluten and Dairy-Free
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s good to know that Sour Patch Kids are both gluten and dairy-free.
Cholesterol Content
Sour Patch candy does not contain any cholesterol. However, as mentioned, this does not make the “sour then sweet” gummy any more healthy since it is packed with truckloads of sugar.
Vitamin and Minerals
This candy does not contribute significantly to your daily vitamin or mineral intake.
Artificial Coloring
The vibrant colors of Sour Patch Kids come from artificial food dyes. Some individuals may be sensitive to these additives, so it’s worth being aware of this.
Here are the Sour Patch flavors by color: Lime (green), Lemon (yellow), Orange (Orange/Peach), Redberry or Cherry (red), Berry (blue), and Grape (purple). However, the watermelon flavor remains one of the best sellers.
Impact on Blood Sugar
Due to their high sugar content, Sour Patch Kids can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Those with diabetes or blood sugar management issues should consume them in moderation.
Effect on Dental Health
The combination of sugar and acid in Sour Patch Kids can be harmful to your dental health, potentially leading to tooth decay and cavities. And unfortunately, brushing and flossing are not enough to ensure a healthy set of teeth. It goes hand in hand with a healthy diet. So, as much as possible, refrain from eating more than a serving of Sour Patch candies in one seating. It is after all a treat, not a meal.
Shelf Life
Sour Patch Kids have a relatively long shelf life due to their high sugar content, which acts as a natural preservative.
Is Sour Patch Kids Vegan-Friendly?
Yes, and no. Older versions of Sour Patch Kids contained gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient. However, modern Sour Patch Kids have swapped gelatin for cornstarch, making them a vegan-friendly candy.
Final Word – Are Sour Patch Kids Healthy?
No, they are not. Apart from sugar and that small bit of sodium, there are no other vitamins or minerals that Sour Patch Kids can offer. So before you reach for a box or a bag of these sour patches, keep in mind these nutrition facts and values. Remember, Sour Patch Kids are meant to be enjoyed in moderation, adding a burst of excitement to your life in the most playful way.
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