Skittles vs. YumEarth Giggles: Which Is Better?

Turkey breast (white meat, no skin)Chicken breast  (white meat, no skin)
Iron0.7 mg (4% DV)0.45mg (2% DV)
Sodium99 mg (4% DV)360mg (26% DV)
Zinc1.7 mg (16% DV)0.9 mg (8% DV)
Magnesium32 mg (8% DV)28 mg (7% DV)
Phosphorus230 mg (18% DV)229 mg (18% DV)
Potassium249 mg (10% DV)359 mg (14% DV)
Copper0.063 mg (7% DV)0.047 mg (5% DV)
Selenium30.2 mcg (55% DV)30.6 mcg (55% DV)
Turkey breast  (white meat, no skin)Chicken breast (white meat, no skin)Turkey (dark, meat, no skin)Chicken (dark meat, no skin)
Calories147 calories161 calories173 calories178 calories
Protein30 g30 g27.7 g23.2 g
Total Fat2.1 g3.5 g6 g8.7 g
Saturated Fat0.6 g0.75 g1.8 g2.4 g
Sodium99 mg (4% DV)360mg (26% DV)104 mg (4% DV)95 mg (4% DV)
Niacin11.8 mg (74% DV)10.3 mg (63% DV)7 mg (44% DV)6 mg (38% DV)
Vitamin B60.8 mg (62% DV)0.87 mg (67% DV)0.44mg (34% DV)0.3 mg (23 % DV)
Zinc1.7 mg (16% DV)0.9 mg (8% DV)3.5 mg (32 % DV)2.1mg (19% DV)
Cholesterol80 mg (27%)98 mg (33% DV)128 mg (42% DV)75 mg (25% DV)

Halloween is just around the corner, and the temptation of sweet treats can be hard to resist. We're putting your favorite candies head-to-head with healthier alternatives in this year’s Signos’ Candy Battle series to help you navigate this spooky season.

Choosing between Skittles and YumEarth Giggles involves considering your taste preferences and dietary needs. Each candy offers unique characteristics that cater to different consumer priorities.

Skittles are a well-known fruit-flavored candy, popular for their vibrant colors and variety of fruity flavors. Each piece is coated with a thin, sugary shell that provides sweetness and flavor. Skittles are widely enjoyed for their intense taste and eye-catching appearance, making them a favorite treat for many.

YumEarth Giggles, on the other hand, is a newer addition to the candy market. It is designed with a focus on natural ingredients and lower sugar content. These sour fruit-flavored candies are made with organic ingredients and are free from artificial colors and flavors. YumEarth Giggles aims to offer a healthier alternative without compromising taste, providing a more diet-conscious choice for those mindful of ingredient quality.

This article will explore the key differences between Skittles and YumEarth Giggles, examining their nutritional profiles, ingredient quality, and overall taste.

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What Is The Difference Between Skittles and YumEarth Giggles?

Skittles are a popular candy known for their vibrant, fruit-flavored experience. These chewy candies come in a colorful candy shell and are available in various flavors like strawberry, grape, and lemon. Skittles are enjoyed for their intense sweetness and the burst of flavor in each piece. Nutritionally, Skittles are relatively high in sugar, with a ½ pack containing around 125 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 22.5 grams of sugar. They also contain artificial colors and flavors, which might concern those with sensitivities or preferences for more natural ingredients. 

In contrast, YumEarth Giggles are designed as a healthier alternative to traditional candies. These certified organic, chewy candy bites are made with high-quality ingredients, including organic cane sugar, organic palm oil, and organic rice syrup. They are free from artificial colors, flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup and instead use the malic acid from whole foods including radish, sweet potato, carrot, and blackcurrant. Like Skittles, the YumEarth Giggles come in a mix of flavors, including green apple, lemon, orange, strawberry, and grape. Each serving of YumEarth Giggles contains about 120 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, and 22 grams of sugar. They cater to those looking for a more natural treat, making them a better option for health-conscious consumers or those with dietary restrictions. 

The main differences between Skittles and YumEarth Giggles lie in their taste profiles, nutritional content, and ingredient quality. Skittles provides a more traditional candy experience with higher sugar content and artificial additives, while YumEarth Giggles offers a lower-sugar, organic alternative focusing on natural ingredients. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize classic candy flavors and sweetness or seek a healthier option with cleaner ingredients.

Which One Is Better: Skittles or YumEarth Giggles?

When deciding between Skittles and YumEarth Giggles, Signos' perspective highlights the importance of balancing taste and health considerations. Skittles are renowned for their vibrant, fruity flavors and colorful appearance, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a classic candy experience. However, Skittles are not typically considered allergy-friendly. They contain several ingredients that may trigger allergies or sensitivities in some individuals:

  1. Artificial Colors and Flavors: Skittles use artificial dyes, colors, and flavors, which can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these additives.
  2. High Sugar Content: While not an allergen, the high sugar content can be a concern for those managing conditions like diabetes or trying to reduce sugar intake.
  3. Potential Cross-Contamination: Skittles are manufactured in facilities that process other foods, which, depending on the production line, could lead to cross-contamination with allergens like peanuts or tree nuts.

On the other hand, YumEarth Giggles presents a healthier option with its commitment to organic ingredients and lower sugar content. Their use of natural flavors and avoidance of artificial additives make them a preferable choice for health-conscious consumers. Here’s a breakdown of their allergy considerations:

  1. Free from Common Allergens: YumEarth Giggles are made with organic ingredients and are free from artificial colors and flavors. They are also free from common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, and soy, which makes them a better option for those with these specific allergies.
  2. Gluten-Free: YumEarth Giggles are gluten-free, which benefits individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
  3. Potential Cross-Contamination: Although YumEarth Giggles avoids many common allergens, cross-contamination is always possible in facilities that process multiple foods. Individuals with severe allergies should consult the packaging for cross-contamination warnings or contact the manufacturer for detailed allergen information.

Ultimately, if you prioritize traditional candy flavors and a burst of sweetness, Skittles might be the go-to option. However, for those who prioritize a healthier treat with fewer artificial ingredients and less sugar, YumEarth Giggles would be the better choice.

Nutrition

When evaluating which candy is better, Skittles or YumEarth Giggles, several factors come into play, including taste preferences, nutritional value, and ingredient quality. Skittles are known for their vibrant flavors and intense sweetness but have a higher sugar content and artificial additives. A standard bag provides around 250 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, and 45 grams of sugar. This high sugar content, artificial colors, and flavors might concern those watching their sugar intake or seeking more natural ingredients.

In contrast, YumEarth Giggles are designed as a healthier alternative, offering organic ingredients and reduced sugar content. A serving of YumEarth Giggles contains approximately 120 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, and 22 grams of sugar. Their lower sugar content and absence of artificial additives make them a more diet-conscious choice. 

While Skittles provides a classic candy experience with bold flavors, YumEarth Giggles offers a healthier option with less sugar and natural ingredients. For those prioritizing health and ingredient quality, YumEarth Giggles are the better choice.

Skittles Original Fruity Candy Single Pack YumEarth Giggles
Serving Size ½ pack (30.75 gr) 30 gr
Calories 125kcal 120kcal
Total Fat (g) 1.25gr 1.5gr
Sugar 22.5gr 22gr
Carbohydrates (g) 28gr 25gr

Glycemic Index

Skittles glycemic index
YumEarth Giggles glycemic index

The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly a food raises blood glucose levels and can significantly impact choices for those managing blood sugar. Skittles typically have a high GI due to their substantial sugar content and refined ingredients. Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, like Skittles, often lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. 

In contrast, YumEarth Giggles are formulated with lower sugar levels and organic ingredients, contributing to a lower glycemic index than conventional candies. While specific GI values for YumEarth Giggles aren't available, their reduced sugar content and natural sweeteners suggest a more gradual impact on blood sugar levels. Knowing this, YumEarth Giggles may be a better choice for those seeking to manage blood sugar levels more effectively.

Skittles Original Fruity Candy Single Pack YumEarth Giggles
Spike 38.8 mg/dL 34 mg/dL

Learn More About Healthy Eating and Nutrition with Signos’ Expert Advice

Signos is a great resource for expert advice on nutrition and healthy eating. Signos has a team of registered dietitians who compile evidence-based nutrition information to help you improve your health and wellness. Check out the resources here.

Signos CGM empowers you to improve your health by keeping track of your diet, exercise, sleep habits, and blood sugar. Knowledge is power, and a CGM can give you specific information about how your habits affect your health. 

Find out if Signos is a good fit for you by taking a quick quiz.

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References

  1. Skittles. (2024). Skittles original fruity candy single pack, 2.17 oz. https://www.skittles.com/products/skittles-original-fruity-candy-single-pack-217-oz-skittles-chewy
  2. YumEarth. (2024). Organic giggles https://yumearth.com/collections/chewy-candy/products/organic-giggles

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Skittles Safe?

Skittles are generally considered safe to eat for most people. However, they contain artificial colors and high amounts of sugar, which may not be suitable for those with certain allergies or dietary restrictions. Some artificial colorings used in Skittles have been linked to potential health concerns, so individuals with sensitivities or preferences for natural ingredients might want to avoid them.

Can I Eat Skittles While Pregnant?

Skittles can be consumed during pregnancy in moderation. However, it's important to be mindful of their high sugar content and artificial ingredients. Pregnant individuals should consider their overall diet and limit their intake of sugary and artificially colored foods to ensure a balanced and healthy nutrition profile.

Do YumEarth Giggles Taste Like Skittles?

YumEarth Giggles do not taste exactly like Skittles. While both candies offer fruity flavors, YumEarth Giggles are designed to have a more natural fruit flavor profile and a sour kick. The use of organic ingredients and natural flavors results in a different taste experience compared to the more intense, artificial flavors of Skittles.

Is YumEarth Candy Good for You?

YumEarth Candy is considered a healthier option compared to traditional candies like Skittles. It is made with organic ingredients, has less sugar, and no artificial colors or flavors. While it is still a candy and should be consumed in moderation, YumEarth Candy is a better choice for those looking for a treat with cleaner ingredients and reduced sugar content. In addition to Giggles, YumEarth offers organic chews (comparable to Starburst, gummy bears, and sour Giggles.

Are either Candies Vegan?

Skittles are not considered vegan due to the inclusion of certain ingredients that are derived from animals. Traditional Skittles contain gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen, usually sourced from the bones and connective tissues of cows and pigs. Also, some artificial colors used in Skittles, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, may be tested on animals, although they are not animal-derived.1

However, YumEarth Giggles is a vegan candy. They are made with plant-based ingredients and do not contain any animal-derived components. YumEarth Giggles avoid using gelatin, a common non-vegan ingredient in many candies. Additionally, YumEarth focuses on using organic and natural ingredients, and its products do not involve animal testing.2

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