Smart Sweets

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, Smart Sweets Fruity Gummy Bears offer a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking cleaner snacks. The product does not boast organic certification and includes ingredients that are not verified as non-GMO, which detracts from its potential appeal to the health-conscious consumer. The presence of added sugars, albeit in the form of allulose and stevia, may raise concerns for those aiming to minimize their sugar intake.

The ingredient list features isomalto-oligosaccharides from vegetable sources and soluble tapioca fiber, which contribute to the product’s texture and sweetness. Gelatin is included as a gelling agent, a common component in gummy candies. The inclusion of malic acid and citric acid, both naturally occurring in fruits, adds tartness to the gummy bears, while natural flavors are used to enhance taste. The colors derive from fruit and vegetable juice, avoiding synthetic dyes.

However, the product loses points for the vague term “natural flavors,” which does not provide transparency regarding its composition. Furthermore, the use of malic acid, despite its natural occurrence, is counted against the product due to its added nature.

The gummy bears are coated with coconut oil and carnauba wax, giving them a non-sticky finish. The use of stevia leaf extract offers a sweetening alternative to traditional sugars, aligning with the product’s aim to provide a cleaner snack option.

Smart Sweets Fruity Gummy Bears present an option for those navigating the complex landscape of healthier snacking. While they fall short in organic and non-GMO credentials, and contain added sugars and certain additives, they also avoid synthetic colors and prioritize plant-based sources. This product stands as an average choice within the spectrum of cleaner food offerings.