Smart Sweets

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Smart Sweets SmartSweets Jolly Gems™ offer a middle-of-the-road option for consumers seeking cleaner snacks. This product positions itself in the market as a healthier candy alternative, steering clear of traditional high-sugar content.

The Jolly Gems™ are not made with organic ingredients, which detracts from their clean food status. The lack of non-GMO certification further impacts their standing. These aspects are critical for many health-conscious shoppers who prioritize organic and non-GMO foods.

Stevia Leaf Extract is the sweetener of choice for these candies. While Stevia is a plant-based alternative to artificial sweeteners and high-fructose corn syrup, it still counts as an added sugar, which is a concern for those monitoring their sugar intake. The inclusion of Citric Acid is also noted for its role as both a flavoring and a preservative, which may not align with the purest clean food principles.

The product loses ground with the inclusion of additives such as Natural Flavors and Malic Acid. These ingredients, while common in processed foods, often raise questions regarding their origins and potential health impacts. The use of Spirulina Extract, Turmeric, and Fruit and Vegetable Juice for coloring is a positive aspect, as these are natural color sources and are generally considered safe and preferable to artificial colors.

Smart Sweets SmartSweets Jolly Gems™ find a balance by avoiding artificial colors and opting for plant-based ingredients where possible. However, the absence of organic and non-GMO ingredients, along with the presence of added sugars and certain additives, hold this product back from achieving a higher green leaf rating. This assessment places the Jolly Gems™ as a moderate choice for those seeking cleaner confectionery options, acknowledging both its strengths in using natural colors and its shortcomings in other ingredient choices.