Hard Candy

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Hard Candy scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Corn-Based Sweeteners (Corn Syrup): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Artificial Colors (Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Gum Acacia): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.
• Other Additives (Carnauba Wax): Miscellaneous additives generally indicate processing.

Within Candy, this product is more processed than about 32% 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 Hard Candy's 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: Sugar.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Microencapsulated Malic Acid (Malic Acid, Hydrogenated Palm Oil), Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Soybean Oil (Processing Aid).

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: Ascorbic Acid.

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.