Starburst candies have been a popular treat for many years, known for their chewy texture and fruity flavors.
However, as people become more health conscious, many are wondering about the nutritional value of these candies, including how many calories they contain.

In this article, we will explore the calorie content of Starburst candies and what this means for those who enjoy this popular candy. Let’s get started.
What Are Starburst?
Starburst is a brand of chewy candy with various fruit flavors that became popular all around the world following its creation in 1960.
These small, square-shaped candies come in a variety of bright colors and flavors, such as strawberry, orange, lemon, and cherry.
Starburst candies are known for their chewy, taffy-like texture and sweet, fruity taste. They are often enjoyed as a sweet snack or treat and are available in various package sizes, from small single-serving packets to large bags.
The Ingredients of Starburst
The ingredients of Starburst fruit chews vary depending on the flavor, but here is a general list of ingredients:
- Fruit juice from concentrate (strawberry, cherry, orange, lemon)
- Sugar
- Corn syrup
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Hydrogenated palm kernel oil
- Gelatin
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
- Modified corn starch
- Coloring agents (varies depending on flavor)
- Less than 2% citric acid
- Tapioca dextrin
Note that Starburst products may also contain allergens such as milk and soy, so be sure to check the label if you have any food sensitivities.
How Many Calories Are in Starburst?
The number of calories in Starburst candies can vary, but on average, a single piece of Starburst candy contains around 20–25 calories. This means that a standard serving size of 8 pieces would contain around 160–200 calories.
It is important to keep in mind that while Starburst candies may be a tasty treat, they are also relatively high in sugar and low in nutritional value.
Therefore, it is important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid consuming too many calories and potentially leading to negative health consequences.
Nutritional Value of Starburst
The nutritional value of Starburst varies depending on the specific product and serving size. However, in general, Starburst is a high-sugar and high-calorie candy with limited nutritional value.
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content for a standard serving size of Starburst (8 pieces or 40g):
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 0g
As you can see, Starburst is high in calories and carbohydrates and contains a significant amount of sugar.
While it does not contain any sodium or protein, it does contain a small amount of fat. It’s important to consume Starburst and other candy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The Different Flavors of Starburst
Starburst is a popular brand of fruit-flavored chewy candies that come in a variety of flavors. Here are some of the different flavors of Starburst:
- Strawberry
- Strawberry Watermelon
- Orange
- Cherry
- Cherry Cooler
- Lemon
- Tropical Punch
- Fruit Punch
- Raspberry
- Watermelon
- Blue Raspberry Lemonade
- Grape Slushie
- Green Apple
- Lemon Lime
These are just some of the many available flavors of Starburst, with new flavors being introduced from time to time.
Does the Flavor Affect the Calories in Starburst?
The flavor of Starburst does not significantly affect the number of calories in each candy. Each individual Starburst candy typically contains around 20–25 calories, regardless of the flavor.
However, different flavors may contain slightly different amounts of sugar or other ingredients, which could affect the nutritional content of the candy in other ways.
It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label on any food product to get a better understanding of its nutritional content.
Are Starburst Good For Weight Loss?
No, Starburst are not good for weight loss. Starbursts are high in sugar and calories, as mentioned above, and consuming them regularly can contribute to weight gain.
To lose weight, it’s important to focus on a healthy and balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and to engage in regular physical activity.
While it’s okay to indulge in treats like Starburst occasionally, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation as part of an overall healthy eating plan.
How To Incorporate Starburst into a Balanced Diet
While Starburst should not be a staple in a balanced diet, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy eating plan. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate Starburst into your diet without going overboard:
Limit Your Portion Sizes
Instead of eating an entire bag of Starburst, enjoy a small serving size of one or two pieces.
Pair With Other Foods
Enjoy your Starburst as part of a balanced snack that includes a source of protein, such as a handful of nuts or a cheese stick, or a piece of fruit to balance out the sugar content.
Use As A Reward
Use Starburst as a reward for reaching a specific goal, such as completing a workout or meeting your daily water intake goal.
Remember that moderation is key when it comes to incorporating any treat into a balanced diet. It’s important to focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods to fuel your body and support overall health.
Final Thoughts
Starburst is a delicious candy that many people enjoy, but it is important to be mindful of its calorie content if you are watching your weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
One Starburst candy contains around 20 calories, so it is easy to consume a lot of calories quickly if you eat multiple pieces at once.
While it’s okay to indulge in Starburst occasionally as part of a balanced diet, it’s best to limit your intake and enjoy them in moderation.
By being mindful of your portion sizes and balancing your Starburst consumption with other nutrient-dense foods, you can satisfy your sweet tooth while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
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