Are SmartSweets Actually Healthy?
When you crave candy —chewy, flavorful, and nostalgic—but don’t want to load up on sugar, SmartSweets steps in like a superhero. I’ve had a sweet tooth since I can remember but traditional candy, that’s full of sugar, rotted my teeth. Since spotting SmartSweets in the aisle at EarthFare, my kids and I have been hooked!
SmartSweets Ingredients
SmartSweets uses a blend of allulose, stevia, and monk fruit extract—FDA-approved natural sweeteners that are low-calorie and low-glycemic. They also pack in plant-based fibers like chicory root, tapioca, and soluble corn fiber, offering prebiotic benefits and helping to balance blood sugar. Each pack of candy has different ingredients which you can find on their website. This is why we choose SmartSweets :
Up to 92% less sugar than traditional candy per 50 g serving
Only 1–4 g of sugar per bag (depending on the type), and no added sugar or sugar alcohols
Gluten-free, plant-based (vegan-friendly for flavors like Sweet Fish, Peach Rings, Watermelon Slices), and free from sugar alcohols
Our Family Favorites
The Sourmelon Bites are by far my favorite. They instantly remind me of the classic Sour Patch Kids I grew up with, but with watermelon flavor which is even better.
They’ve got that perfect sweet-and-sour kick, chewy texture, and nostalgic candy vibe—without all the excess sugar and artificial ingredients.
If you’re craving a healthier swap that still delivers bold flavor, these bites hit the spot every time. It’s hard for me not to eat the whole bag!
The SmartSweets Lollipops are a hit in our house—both with me and my teens. It’s hard to only eat one!
They’re sweet, fruity, and slightly tart. They taste great just like a traditional lollipop, but without the sugar overload.
I love that these lollipops satisfy that little craving for something sweet while keeping things light and guilt-free without loosing flavor.
What the Experts Are Saying
Health analysts note SmartSweets delivers a much lower sugar hit (2–3 g vs. ~28 g) compared to other candies. However, high fiber may cause bloating in sensitive tummies, and net carbs aren’t negligible—so moderation matters . Overall, dietitians agree their sugar + flavor combo makes them a better occasional sweet fix without sacrificing taste
A Few Things to Note
Not a health food staple: Still candy. Not a substitute for nutrient-rich whole foods.
Allulose and high fiber: Some may experience gas or bloating—listener discretion advised.
Sweet palate: Because they’re still sweetened, they may reinforce a preference for sweet flavors.
The Takeaway
SmartSweets strikes the perfect balance—fun and flavor, minus the crash out of the sugar. It’s the kind of candy I’m proud to hand my kids, knowing we’re making a healthier choice - a healthy alternative to traditional candy.
