What’s in Sugar Babies candy?

Sugar Babies are caramel-coated milk candies, with a soft, chewy texture that sticks around (literally).

Here’s what’s typically in the ingredients list:

• Sugar
  
  
• Corn syrup
  
  
• Hydrogenated oils
  
  
• Dextrose
  
  
• Artificial flavors and coloring
  
  
• Milk solids and whey
  
  

So yes — they’re loaded with sugar and ultra-processed additives. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them ever again, but they definitely fall into the “occasional treat” category.

Why the problem goes beyond sugar

The issue with Sugar Babies — and many candies like them — isn’t just the sugar. It’s the combination of:

• Processed sweeteners like corn syrup and dextrose
  
  
• Hydrogenated oils (which can contribute to inflammation)
  
  
• Artificial additives that don’t offer any nutritional benefit
  
  

These ingredients make the product shelf-stable, addictive, and very hard to stop eating once you start.

So… are Sugar Babies “bad” for you?

It depends on how often you’re eating them. A few pieces now and then? Not a big deal. But like all ultra-processed sweets, they should be treated as occasional indulgences, not everyday snacks.

And if you’re trying to build healthier habits or avoid blood sugar spikes, there are better choices out there — or at least better ways to enjoy sweet things without overdoing it.

GoCoCo helps you spot what the label doesn’t say

Most candy brands won’t tell you they’re ultra-processed — and many people don’t realize how much added sugar or low-quality fats are hidden in some snacks.

That’s why we created GoCoCo. With just a scan, you can:

• 📱 Get a health score based on ingredients, not just calories
  
  
• 🚫 Identify ultra-processed foods with red flags for sugar, emulsifiers, and additives
  
  
• 🍫 Compare sweet options to find treats with cleaner, simpler ingredients
  
  
• 🎯 Build habits that focus on balance — not restriction
  
  

Want something sweet? Try these instead

Looking for better-for-you alternatives that still satisfy your sweet tooth?

Here are a few ideas:

• Frozen banana slices dipped in dark chocolate
  
  
• Medjool dates with almond butter
  
  
• Oat balls with cocoa and peanut butter
  
  
• A square of 70% dark chocolate (just one!)
  
  

🥄 Portion tip: Stick to a few bites or a small handful — not the whole box.