Choose organic or natural candy as a treat
Why This is Green
Sometimes you need a little something sweet. Fruit, fruit leathers, a square of bitter chocolate, and even honey can help, but there’s a time and a place for sugar. When the moment strikes, it’s a good idea to avoid conventional candy, which tends to contain a whole host of not-good-for-anyone ingredients, let alone growing kids: high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), mercury, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, plus pesticide residue and genetically modified ingredients—usually soy and corn derivatives or oil. None of that really sounds appetizing.
Whether your craving is a seasonal thing (candy corn, candy cane, s’mores) or a deadline has you in the mood, there are organic or at least natural versions of just about every conventional candy on the market available to hit the spot. There are gummy worms, jellybeans, sour straws, peanut butter cups—you name it.
As you shop for sweets, keep in mind that the best versions don’t come individually wrapped in plastic that will wind up in landfills.
Learn More
- ChicagoTribune.com: Mercury In Corn Syrup? Food Made With Ingredient May Have Traces Of Toxic Metal
- Center For Science In The Public Interest: Food Dyes And Behavior Report Form
- Los Angeles Times: FDA Advisors Recommend More Study Of Food Dyes
- Daily Mail: Government To Ban Six Food Additives Linked To Child Hyperactivity
- National Cancer Institute: Artificial Sweeteners And Cancer
How To
Head to your local natural foods store. You’re more likely to find “good” candy there.
When shopping, read ingredient lists. Check to see what the source of sweetness is; HFCS lurks in the oddest places, an organic sugars are preferable. Also read about the dyes. Natural dyes made of things like beet, carrot, and annatto are great replacements for artificial dyes.
Natural foods markets sometimes sell affordable private-label options. Bulk versions help cut down on packaging.
Enjoy!
