Treats Without HFCS

This hub is for people who want sweets without high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)—whether that’s for taste, personal preference, or just curiosity. You’ll find gummies, cookies, and hard candies made with alternatives like cane sugar, tapioca syrup, allulose, and sugar alcohols. Think Trader Joe’s gummies and holiday Joe-Joe’s, low-sugar SmartSweets, and sugar-free Werther’s. Here’s the real talk: swapping out HFCS doesn’t automatically make a treat “healthy.” Cane sugar and HFCS behave similarly in your body; the bigger picture is how often and how much you’re snacking. Low- or no-sugar options can help some folks manage intake, but they sometimes come with trade-offs—different taste/texture, a higher price tag, or (in sugar-free candies) potential tummy grumbles. Budget-wise, HFCS-free can range from very affordable (Trader Joe’s store brands) to premium (SmartSweets can cost noticeably more per ounce). Shop sales, compare price per ounce, and consider multipacks online. If you’re sensitive to sugar alcohols, start with a small serving. And yes, it’s totally fine to prefer the taste of one sweetener over another—this is about finding what works for you, not earning a gold star for snacking.

Key Benefits

• Lets you skip HFCS while still enjoying candy and cookie moments.
• More control over sugar intake with low- and no-sugar options available.
• Often clearer ingredient decks: cane sugar, allulose, or tapioca syrup.
• Broader choices for dietary needs, including gluten-free and sugar-free.
• Easier portion management with single-serve bags and individually wrapped.