Candy — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 394 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 98 g | 35.64% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 68 g | 136% |
| Glycemic Index | 70 | - |
| Protein | 0 g | - |
| Sodium | 28 mg | 1.22% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Provides quick energy due to its high sugar content, which can be useful for a rapid energy boost.
- Enhances mood as it can release endorphins, leading to temporary feelings of happiness and pleasure.
- Encourages social bonding when shared during celebrations and gatherings, promoting social interaction.
- Offers enjoyment as an occasional treat, contributing to overall satisfaction and well-being.
Health risks
- High sugar content which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of diabetes when consumed in large quantities.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain, especially if consumed frequently or in large portions.
- Artificial additives and preservatives such as food colorings, flavorings, and preservatives, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Low nutrient density as candy provides little to no nutritional value, contributing empty calories to the diet.
How to choose candy
For an ideal candy choice, seek out options with vivid, attractive colors and a fresh aroma. Chocolates should be noted for their smooth, glossy surface free of any blotches. Favor candies made from natural sugars and flavorings for a more wholesome indulgence.
Stay away from candies that are sticky, discolored, or have a waxy feel, as these are telltale signs of age or low quality. A quality piece of candy should deliver a fresh taste and melt smoothly in your mouth without any residual grittiness.
How to store candy
Candy should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Airtight containers help maintain freshness and prevent candy from becoming sticky or stale. Properly stored, candy can last for several months.
Heat and moisture can cause candy to melt or become sticky, so these conditions should be avoided. Refrigeration is generally not recommended unless specified on the packaging, as it can affect texture. Keeping different types of candy separate prevents flavor mixing.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Candy can last for 6 months to 1 year when stored in a cool, dry place. Hard candies can last indefinitely if kept properly. Always check for any changes in texture or flavor before consuming.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover candy can be repurposed in a variety of sweet ways. Chop it up and use it as a topping for ice cream sundaes or mix it into baked goods like cookies, brownies, or cakes for a fun twist. Candy can also be blended into milkshakes for an indulgent treat.
Use candy pieces in a trail mix with nuts and dried fruit, or add them to homemade granola bars for a sweet surprise. If you have a lot of candy, consider using it to decorate cupcakes or cakes, or melt it down to make a candy bark with various toppings. Candy can also be used as a filling for chocolates or truffles, or simply enjoyed as a snack on its own. For a festive treat, try using candy in a gingerbread house or other holiday desserts.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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