Gummy Bears

Why Does This Score Highly Processed?

In our analysis, Gummy Bears scores Highly Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Modified Starches (Modified Cornstarch): Chemical modification is a hallmark of UPF.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Flavors (Grape, Watermelon, Cherry)): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.
• Other Additives (Carnauba Wax): Miscellaneous additives generally indicate processing.

Within Candy, this is among the less processed of the 21,778 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Gummy Bears' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Tapioca Syrup, Cane Sugar, Dextrose*.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Sodium Citrate.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Dl-Malic Acid, Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Expeller Pressed And/Or Cold Pressed Sunflower Seed Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Processed Vegetable ProductsProcessing indicator

In this product: Colored With Vegetable Extracts (Red Cabbage, Radish).

Extracts and powders indicate processing.