SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high concentration of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
SMART SENSE Peppermint Candy Canes score 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
This product contains 58.33g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic candy canes, this product offers a similar nutritional profile.
Consume in very small portions due to the high sugar content.
Scores -15 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
58.33g
117% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (58.3g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is a food to avoid for regular consumption. The primary factor driving this score is the exceptionally high amount of added sugar, which stands at 58.33g per 100g. This significantly exceeds daily recommended limits and contributes a substantial -25 penalty to its score. The first ingredient listed, SUGAR, confirms this high sugar content. Furthermore, the product is categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional -10 penalty. This classification reflects its formulation with industrial ingredients and lack of whole foods. With 416.67 calories per 100g and no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients, it is also considered to provide empty calories, resulting in a -15 penalty. There are no bonus points for any beneficial nutrients, as it contains 0g protein, 0g fiber, and 0% DV for all tested vitamins and minerals. This nutritional profile is consistent with the generic unbranded version of candy canes, which also typically consists almost entirely of sugar and flavorings.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart sense, candy canes, peppermint, peppermint actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Quick Energy
SMART SENSE candy canes are composed almost entirely of simple carbohydrates, primarily sugar and corn syrup. This composition allows for a rapid release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing a quick burst of energy. While not a sustained energy source, it can be useful in situations requiring an immediate caloric boost, such as during intense, short-duration physical activity or to quickly alleviate symptoms of low blood sugar in non-diabetic individuals. However, this quick energy is not accompanied by other nutrients.
Fits Specific Dietary Restrictions (Fat-Free)
For individuals following a fat-free diet or those looking to minimize fat intake, SMART SENSE candy canes contain 0g of total fat per 100g. This makes them suitable for specific dietary protocols where fat restriction is a primary concern. It is important to note that while fat-free, the product is very high in sugar, which should be considered in the overall dietary context. This characteristic can be a factor for those managing certain health conditions that require strict fat limitation.
Useful for Occasional Indulgence
SMART SENSE candy canes can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced diet. Their primary role is to provide sensory enjoyment rather than nutritional value. For those who enjoy the peppermint flavor and sweetness, a small portion can satisfy a craving without significantly impacting overall nutrient intake, provided it is consumed infrequently and in moderation. This product is designed for pleasure and can be incorporated into holiday traditions or celebrations.
SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high concentration of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Candy canes are typically consumed as a holiday confection, often enjoyed individually or used as decorative elements. They are generally eaten directly from the wrapper, offering a sweet, peppermint flavor. Due to their high sugar content, they are best consumed in very small, infrequent portions.
Consider using candy canes primarily for decorative purposes rather than for consumption to limit sugar intake.
Pair a small piece of candy cane with a nutrient-dense food like plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to balance the sugar and add protein/fiber.
Break a single candy cane into smaller pieces to manage portion size and extend the enjoyment over time.
Limit consumption to special occasions or holidays, treating them as an infrequent indulgence rather than a regular snack.
As an alternative, consider peppermint-flavored herbal teas or sugar-free mints for a similar flavor profile without the added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT is its extremely high added sugar content, which can contribute to excessive caloric intake and potential negative health outcomes if consumed regularly. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes, should exercise extreme caution or avoid this product due to the rapid spike in blood glucose it can cause. The ingredient FD&C RED 40 is an artificial food coloring that some individuals, particularly children, may be sensitive to, potentially experiencing hyperactivity or other behavioral changes. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some consumers prefer to avoid artificial colors. The product contains no common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, or nuts, making it suitable for those with these specific allergies, but its overall nutritional profile remains a concern.
Is SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT healthy?
No, SMART SENSE CANDY CANES, PEPPERMINT, PEPPERMINT is not considered healthy. It receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily due to its very high added sugar content (58.33g per 100g) and lack of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is classified as an ultra-processed food and provides mostly empty calories.
How does SMART SENSE compare to other candy canes?
SMART SENSE candy canes are nutritionally similar to most other branded and generic candy canes on the market, such as those from Spangler Candy Company (Dum Dums brand). The ingredient list and nutritional profile are largely identical, consisting mainly of sugar, corn syrup, and artificial colors/flavors. All typically score very low on nutrition databases due to their high sugar content.
What is the role of Titanium Dioxide in this product?
Titanium Dioxide is used in SMART SENSE candy canes as a whitening agent and to provide opacity. It is a food additive that contributes to the visual appeal of the candy, making the white stripes more distinct. It does not provide any nutritional value and its safety as a food additive has been subject to ongoing review in various regions.
What is a reasonable portion size for these candy canes?
Given the high sugar content, a reasonable portion size for SMART SENSE candy canes would be very small and infrequent. The declared serving size is 1 piece, which is already high in sugar. For most individuals, consuming half or even a quarter of a single candy cane, and only on rare occasions, would be a more appropriate approach to moderation.
Can I use these candy canes in baking?
Yes, SMART SENSE candy canes can be used in baking to add peppermint flavor and a decorative touch. They are often crushed and sprinkled on cookies, brownies, or used in hot chocolate. However, remember that using them in recipes will add significant amounts of sugar to the final product, so adjust other sweeteners accordingly.