Do Smarties Really Make You Smarter? The Facts on This Colorful Candy

Do Smarties Really Make You Smarter?

Smarties - the classic American candy consisting of chocolate discs wrapped in a shiny candy shell - have been around since the 1940s. Their fun size, vivid colors, and sweet chocolate taste have made them a favorite treat for generations of kids and adults alike.

But do Smarties actually make you smarter, as their name implies? Let's take a look at the potential effects these colorful chocolates may have on the brain.

The Sugar Content of Smarties

The main ingredient in Smarties is sugar. Each small Smartie contains about 4.5 grams of sugar, adding up to around 24 grams of sugar in a typical 1 ounce (28 gram) serving size.

Eating sugar causes blood glucose levels to spike, which results in the release of insulin. This in turn triggers signals in the brain designed to regulate sugar levels in the bloodstream. So in essence, eating any food high in sugar - including Smarties - causes a sequence of hormonal actions and reactions in the body and brain.

However, regular consumption of high amounts of sugar may have detrimental effects on brain health over time. Excess sugar intake has been linked to poorer memory and cognitive function, likely due to inflammation. So while an occasional Smartie may give you a short-lived sugar rush, relying on them as brain fuel is not the wisest idea.

The Caffeine Content of Chocolate

In addition to sugar, Smarties contain cocoa and chocolate, which naturally provide small amounts of caffeine. Caffeine is a known mental stimulant, and chocolate contains around 10 milligrams of caffeine per ounce.

Moderate caffeine intake has been shown to improve alertness, focus, energy and mood. The caffeine in a serving of Smarties may provide a mild energizing effect due to its stimulant properties. However, the boost is small and temporary compared to drinking a cup of coffee.

Do Antioxidants in Chocolate Boost Brain Function?

Cocoa and dark chocolate are rich sources of antioxidants called flavanols. Research shows that flavanols may offer neuroprotective benefits for the brain including:

• Enhanced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain
• Reduced neuroinflammation
• Increased production of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin
• Improved performance on cognitive tests for memory and focus

However, Smarties contain very little pure cocoa or chocolate. Milk chocolate, as found in Smarties, has far fewer beneficial flavanols compared to darker varieties with higher cacao content. So while dark chocolate may boost brain power, Smarties likely offer minimal cognitive benefits from antioxidants.

Can Smarties Provide Mental Energy?

While the sugar content gives a quick jolt of energy, and the bit of caffeine offers a small stimulant effect, Smarties are unlikely to significantly enhance mental performance or make you "smarter" as the name jokingly implies.

Any immediate brain boost is temporary, and regular overconsumption of sugary, processed candies may even be detrimental for the brain long-term. For sustained energy, focus and memory, you're better off fueling your body with healthy whole foods and staying hydrated.

The History and Origins of Smarties Candy

To understand the beloved candy Smarties, let's take a look back at the origins and history of this iconic treat.

Creation and Early History

Smarties as we know them today were first created in England in 1937 by a company called H.I. Rowntree & Co. They were marketed under the name "Chocolate Beans" at the time.

The candy made its way to the US in 1949 when the American company National Foods acquired the rights and began producing Smarties stateside. The name Smarties was trademarked and used starting in the 1950s.

Throughout the mid 20th century, Smarties gained popularity as a cost-effective and portable candy perfect for everything from holiday treats to lunchbox additions. Their small wrapped pieces and bright colors also made them visually appealing.

Rising Popularity and Pop Culture References

Smarties saw a surge in popularity in the 1980s and 90s. During this time, Smarties took on the slogan "We make kids smile!" Advertisements portrayed Smarties as an ideal candy to spread joy and fun among children.

Smarties also made appearances in movies, songs and children's media during the 80s and 90s, further boosting public awareness and love for the candy. Memorable references include the Smarties cereal in Beetlejuice and Smarties being the favorite candy of the character Eugene in Hey Arnold!

The Brand Today

Today, Nestle owns the United States Smarties brand. The candies continue to be produced in factories in Canada and remain a popular Halloween and Valentine's Day treat.

While the original Smarties package features a mix of chocolate flavored discs, new varieties have emerged over the years. These include Smarties Pop Rocks, Mega Smarties, Tropical Smarties, Giant Smarties, Smarties Minis, and various holiday-themed packages.

After over 60 years of candy-making, Smarties have cemented themselves as a nostalgic brand loved by generations.

Smarties Candy Nutrition Facts and Ingredients

What exactly is in those small, colorful Smarties candies that families have enjoyed for years? Let's analyze the standard Smarties nutrition facts and ingredients list.

Serving Size and Calories

A typical serving size of Smarties is 1 ounce or 28 grams. This amount contains around 140 calories.

The full nutrition info for a serving is:

• 140 calories
• 2g protein
• 24g carbohydrates
• 5g fat
• 10mg sodium

Given their small size, it's easy to eat more than a single serving at a time. But being mindful of portions is important, especially for children.

Sugar Content

The main ingredient and source of calories in Smarties is sugar. Each 1 ounce serving packs 24g of sugar, which supplies around half the recommended daily limit for kids.

So while they provide a quick energy boost, the high sugar content makes Smarties more of an occasional treat.

Main Ingredients

Smarties have a fairly straightforward and short ingredient list. The main components are:

• Sugar - Provides sweetness.
• Cocoa - Chocolate flavor and caffeine.
• Skim milk - Adds creaminess.
• Colors - Creates fun shades.
• Shellac - Assists with candy coating.

Beyond these core ingredients, Smarties are free of added preservatives, artificial flavors, corn syrup and many common allergens.

Nutritional Upsides

Though high in sugar, Smarties do offer a few nutritional perks. These include:

• A source of calcium from skim milk
• Antioxidants from cocoa
• Small amounts of magnesium

However, there are plenty of healthier food choices that provide more complete nutrition without so much added sugar.

The Unique Properties of Smarties Candy Coating

One of the signature features of Smarties that sets them apart from other chocolates is their smooth, shiny candy shell. This coating gives Smarties their "melt proof" reputation and satisfying crunch.

Main Coating Ingredients

Smarties use a sugar-based confectionery coating made from these key ingredients:

• Sugar - The primary component that crystallizes into a shell.
• Shellac - Derived from lac beetles, helps bind ingredients.
• Colors - Provide vibrant hue.
• Wax - Assists with hardening and crunch.

The proportions and types of sugar and other ingredients used affect the texture and appearance of the coating.

Purpose of the Coating

This specially formulated candy shell serves several important purposes:

• Contains mess - Keeps melted chocolate from getting on hands and clothes.
• Controls melt rate - Minimizes melting so shapes hold.
• Prevents sticking - Allows pieces to pour and spread freely.
• Provides crunch - Gives a satisfying texture.

The coating allows Smarties to maintain their distinct disc shape quality whether packaged or being eaten.

Manufacturing Process

The Smarties candy coating goes through a detailed production process. The basic steps are:

1. Chocolate discs are formed in molds and cooled.
2. Discs move down a conveyor belt to coating drum.
3. Liquid syrup-like coating is poured over discs as they tumble.
4. Coated pieces are dried and polished in rotating drums.
5. Smarties quality is checked prior to packaging.

Precise temperature, timing and turbulence controls allow the candies to develop an ideal coverage and sheen.

Unique Traits of Smarties VS M&M's

Smarties and M&M's have a lot in common - they are both bite-size chocolate candies with a colored candy shell coating. But fans often prefer one or the other. Here's a closer look at how Smarties and M&M's differ.

Shape and Size

The most obvious difference is the shape. Smarties are flat discs, while M&M's are small ovals. In terms of size, Smarties tend to be a bit smaller and thinner.

Coating

Both use sugar-based candy coatings, but Smarties shells are crunchier. M&M's have a slightly thicker, softer shell. Some people feel Smarties coating provides a more satisfying texture.

Ingredients

While both contain chocolate and coloring agents, M&M's also include corn syrup and milkfat in the coating. Smarties rely on shellac instead of wax for glaze.

Chocolate Flavor

M&M's have more of a milk chocolate flavor from cocoa butter, while Smarties offer a lighter chocolate taste. Smarties chocolate comes just from cocoa powder.

Color Range

Smarties come in more shades - a mix of eight colors in a pack, versus M&M's six standard hues. This gives Smarties a more playful, fun look.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Both deliver on candy-coated chocolate goodness!

Popular Uses for Smarties Candy

Beyond just eating Smarties straight from the package, people have come up with many fun and creative ways to use this beloved candy over the years. Here are some of the most popular uses.

Decorating Desserts

The small size and bright colors make Smarties perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, ice cream sundaes and other desserts. They add a pop of color and crunch without overwhelming sweetness.

Adding to Snack Mixes

Mix a handful of Smarties into trail mixes, cereal mixes or snack mixes for parties, movie nights or road trips. They hold up well and integrate into the mix.

Crafting with Kids

Let kids get creative by crafting with Smarties! They can make candy art pictures, designs on plates or vases, or melted Smarties paint for finger painting projects.

Holiday Treats

Because of their bright colors, Smarties are ideal for many holidays. Use them to create wreaths for Christmas, eggs for Easter, or hearts for Valentine's Day.

Color Sorting Activities

Sorting Smarties by color is a fun activity to improve fine motor skills, counting ability, and color recognition for small children. Turn it into a math, science or art lesson.

Ice Cream Toppings

Add crunchy texture and flavor to ice cream with Smarties. Kids like creating their own Smarties-filled sundaes.

The options are endless for finding new ways to enjoy this classic candy!

The Rising Popularity of Smarties themed Parties

Given their nostalgic appeal and colorful fun, Smarties have become the basis for many themed celebrations over the years. The candy's versatility makes it perfect for crafting unique parties with food, decor and activities.

Kid Birthday Bashes

Many parents plan Smarties-themed birthday parties for kids. Ideas include:

• Smarties cookies, cake pops or cupcakes
• Colorful Smarties candy bar
• Piñata filled with Smarties
• Smarties sorting races
• Candy necklaces or jewelry crafts

The colors and shapes spark creativity for fun parties kids love.

Adult Smarties Parties

Smarties parties appeal to adults too. Grown-up versions may feature:

• Smarties margaritas, martinis or shots
• A Smarties chocolate fountain
• Smarties trivia or candy counting contests
• Nostalgic candy bar and treats
• Prizes for best Smarties-inspired costume

Parties provide a chance for adults to let loose and enjoy this childhood candy again.

Holiday Celebrations

Because of their bright colors, Smarties make fantastic additions to holiday gatherings like:

• Easter - Add to egg hunts and baskets
• 4th of July - Use for red, white and blue treats
• Halloween - Ideal for trick-or-treat candy
• Christmas - Mix into cookie icing or hot cocoa
• Valentine's Day - Craft into sweet heart boxes and gifts

People love being creative and celebrating with this iconic candy.

Innovative New Smarties Candy Products

While original Smarties have stayed largely the same over the decades, the brand has rolled out some exciting new candies and products in recent years.

Smarties Pop Rocks

Smarties Pop Rocks combine the fizz and pop of Pop Rocks candy with the classic Smarties taste. Tiny popping candy bits are embedded into the Smarties disc for an exciting texture.

Giant Smarties

Giant Smarties are bite-sized Smarties pieces that are twice as large as regular Smarties. They deliver bigger chocolate flavor and crunch.

Sour Smarties

Sour Smarties have a tangy tart candy coating encasing the chocolate, for those who enjoy sour candy flavors.

Smarties Candy Bars

Full-size Smarties candy bars contain crispy rice and Smarties pieces inside milk chocolate, similar to a Nestle Crunch bar.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.