Best Healthy Candy Alternatives for Every Craving
Discover guilt-free options that deliver sweetness from whole fruit and clean chocolate.
11 Best Healthy Candy Alternatives for Every Craving
Whether you’re searching for a guilt-free treat, need allergy-friendly sweets, or just want to indulge without the extra sugar and additives, there’s a growing variety of healthy candy alternatives you can enjoy. Guided by dietitian-approved recommendations, here are 11 standout picks that satisfy sweet cravings with better ingredients—think real fruit, Fair Trade chocolate, and options that are vegan, gluten free, organic, or low in sugar. Discover favorites loved by both nutrition experts and real families, complete with nutritional highlights and flavor notes for every brand.
Why Choose Healthy Candy Alternatives?
- Beyond traditional sweets: Many classic candies contain high levels of added sugars, artificial dyes, and preservatives.
- Better-for-you ingredients: Healthy alternatives use whole fruit, Fair Trade chocolate, plant-based sweeteners, and often skip artificial additives.
- Dietary inclusivity: The market now offers vegan, gluten free, dairy free, and nut-free options, making candy more accessible for everyone.
- Nutrition-first approach: Many picks offer fiber, vitamins, and even protein, transforming a treat into a sensible snack.
Our Top Picks: Candy Alternatives Recommended by Nutrition Experts
The following candies were selected by expert dietitians for their clean labels, minimal processing, and positive nutritional profiles. Each pick includes flavor variety, ingredients, and key nutritional information.
1. SOLELY Organic Mango and Guava Whole Fruit Gummies
- Ingredients: 100% whole fruit and vitamin C.
- Features: No added sugars, no artificial coloring, vegan, organic, one fruit serving per pouch.
- Flavors: Mango, mango orange, mango guava.
- Tester feedback: “Great consistency and chewy. Mango flavor stands out; child-approved.”
| Nutrition (per pouch) | 60 calories, 0 g fat, 0 mg sodium, 13 g carbs, 1 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 0 g added sugar, 0 g protein |
|---|
2. UNREAL Complete Variety Pack
- Ingredients: Fair Trade chocolate, natural sweeteners, quinoa crisps, coconut.
- Features: Non-GMO, no sugar alcohols, artificial dyes, or preservatives.
- Included Treats: Dark chocolate coconut bars, almond and peanut butter cups, chocolate quinoa gems.
- Tester feedback: “Variety is fun for families; no fake dyes means peace of mind.”
| Nutrition (per dark chocolate coconut bar) | 70 calories, 5 g fat, 4.5 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0 mg sodium, 8 g carbs, 1 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 3 g added sugar, <1g protein |
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3. Cocomels Sea Salt Coconut Milk Caramels
- Ingredients: Coconut milk base, sea salt, USDA organic ingredients.
- Features: Dairy-free, gluten-free, no corn syrup, no artificial ingredients, 2 g sugar per piece.
- Tester feedback: “Perfect sweet-salty balance and satisfying chew!”
| Nutrition (per three pieces) | 60 calories, 2 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 80 mg sodium, 9 g carbs, <1 g fiber, 7 g sugar, 7 g added sugar, 0 g protein |
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4. SmartSweets Candy Variety Pack
- Ingredients: Sweetened and colored by fruit and vegetable juices, high-fiber recipe.
- Features: No sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners or added sugar, vegan, gluten free.
- Flavors: Sweet Fish, Peach Rings, Sourmelon Bites, Sour Blast Buddies.
- Tester feedback: “No fake taste or artificial flavor, even non-diet candy fans enjoyed.”
| Nutrition (per pouch, Sweet Fish) | 100 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 70 mg sodium, 42 g carbs, 13 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 0 g added sugar, 0 g protein |
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5. RIND Chewy Skin-On Dried Fruit
- Ingredients: Dried fruit with skins preserved, maximizing fiber and nutrients.
- Features: No added sugars, Non-GMO, gluten free, vegan.
- Varieties: Straw-peary mix—strawberries, pears, red apples.
- Tester feedback: “Wholesome snack with real fruit flavor and chewy texture.”
What others are reading
| Nutrition (per serving) | 120 calories, 0 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0 mg sodium, 28 g carbs, 4 g fiber, 13 g sugar, 0 g added sugar, 1 g protein |
|---|
6. Defi Dark Chocolate Pink Himalayan Sea Salt Superfood Bites
- Ingredients: Sprouted buckwheat, whey crisps, rich dark chocolate, Himalayan sea salt.
- Features: High protein, gluten free, no artificial sweeteners, balance of sweet and salty.
- Tester feedback: “Satisfying crunch, clean ingredients, great for adults.”
| Nutrition (per serving) | Calories and macronutrients vary; contains high protein and mineral-rich salt |
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7. Solely Organic Mango Strawberry Whole Fruit Gummies
- Ingredients: Only two—organic mangoes and strawberries.
- Features: No added sugars or preservatives, vegan, nutritious and convenient for on-the-go.
- Tester feedback: “Naturally sweet and perfect for lunchboxes.”
8. Other Noteworthy Picks
- Caulipower Dill Flavored Chicken Bites: While not a candy, these bite-size protein snacks use real chicken and tangy cauliflower breading for a fun, crunchy twist on classic treats with no artificial ingredients or gluten.
- Icelandic Provisions Mango & Passion Fruit Oatmilk Skyr: A creamy, oat-based, plant protein snack with live cultures and fruit, ideal for dairy-free eaters craving sweetness and nutrition.
Nutrition Comparison Table
| Candy | Calories | Sugars (g) | Added Sugar (g) | Fiber (g) | Fat (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOLELY Whole Fruit Gummies | 60 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| UNREAL Coconut Bar | 70 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 5 | <1 |
| Cocomels Caramels (3 pc) | 60 | 7 | 7 | <1 | 2 | 0 |
| SmartSweets Sweet Fish | 100 | 3 | 0 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
| RIND Snacks | 120 | 13 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 1 |
Key Features Across Healthy Candy Brands
- Minimal Ingredients: Some brands use just fruit or a handful of recognizable ingredients.
- Free from Common Allergens: Many picks exclude major allergens such as dairy, gluten, soy, and nuts, or offer clearly labeled allergen-free alternatives.
- No Artificial Colors or Preservatives: Colors are often derived naturally from fruit and vegetable juices.
- Thoughtful Sweeteners: Most use natural sweeteners or rely entirely on fruit for sweetness.
- Sustainability Focus: Look for Fair Trade chocolate and Non-GMO verification as additional benefits.
How to Choose the Best Healthy Candy for You
- Check Labels: Review nutrition facts for added sugars, fiber, and protein content.
- Consider Dietary Needs: Seek vegan, gluten free, or nut-free certifications if required.
- Balance Taste and Nutrition: Find treats that satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer nutritional quality.
- Read Honest Reviews: Testers consistently emphasize taste, texture, and family-friendliness. Kids and adults may love different picks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are healthy candies low in sugar?
Many healthy candies contain no added sugar or very low levels, often using fruit for sweetness. However, total sugar content varies by brand, so review the nutrition facts before making a choice.
Q: Do these candies taste like traditional candy?
Testers noted most alternatives taste very close to their conventional counterparts, especially when using whole fruit or quality chocolate. Some brands offer childhood favorites in better-for-you forms, with no ‘fake’ aftertaste reported.
Q: Can I eat these candies if I have food allergies?
Most picks are made without major allergens and clearly label their free-from status. Always read labels carefully if you have allergies to nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Q: Are there healthy candies for children?
Yes! Many options are made for children’s taste preferences and dietary needs—such as SOLELY gummies and SmartSweets packs, which are approved by both adults and kids for flavor and fun, without unwanted ingredients.
Q: Where can I buy healthy candy alternatives?
Most brands are available online and in major retailers. You can find variety packs for family sharing, single-serving bags for lunchboxes, and larger formats for parties or holidays. Always look for products with certifications like organic, Non-GMO, or vegan to match your needs.
Tips for Healthier Candy Consumption
- Enjoy in moderation—most picks offer nutrition, but portion control is still important.
- Pair candy with whole foods (like fruit or nuts) for a more satisfying snack.
- Use single-serving packs for better portion awareness, especially with children.
- Try new flavors and brands to find what suits your taste and lifestyle best.
Final Thoughts: Redefining Sweet Treats
The landscape of healthy candy alternatives is rapidly expanding, allowing you to enjoy sweet, satisfying snacks without sacrificing nutrition or clean ingredients. With options that are organic, vegan, gluten free, and free from artificial additives or excess sugar, there’s a treat for every preference and every dietary need. Let expert-backed picks guide the way toward happier, healthier snacking—no compromise required.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/g39094391/healthy-candy/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZazKUq_psk
- https://www.rindsnacks.com/blogs/news/good-housekeeping-50-best-healthy-snacks-to-buy-according-to-a-registered-dietitian
- https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/shop/story/6-winning-picks-good-housekeeping-best-snack-awards-123338480
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/g64736791/2025-snack-awards-produce/
- https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/video/123445214
- https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/video/123338480
- https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/GMA3/video/good-housekeeping-reveals-winners-snack-awards-123540174
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