HARIBO GOUDBEREN
HEALTH RISK: 80 / 100
Ingredients that cause Health Risks
Glucose Syrup / Sugar / Dextrose
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver disease
Artificial Colors (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1)
Hyperactivity in children, allergy/sensitivity, possible long-term toxicity concerns
Palm Oil / Saturated Fats in oils / waxes
Elevated LDL cholesterol, risk for cardiovascular disease
Acidic Agents + Sugar combo
Dental decay, enamel erosion
*All risk scores on Your Vending Health are subjective and based on our internal scoring system. Ratings reflect each ingredient’s potential health impact according to available nutrition research, but they are not medical advice. Individual responses to ingredients may vary, and scores should be viewed as general guidance rather than definitive health assessments.
WHAT IS IT
Classic gummy bear candy made from glucose/corn syrup, sugar, gelatin, flavorings, wax coatings, and artificial colors.
BENEFITS
Fun, chewy snack, small serving gives a quick sugar boost and is enjoyable for a treat.
DRAWBACKS
Doesn’t offer real nutrition beyond calories; high in added sugars; contains artificial dyes and waxes; gelatin is animal-derived (which may be a concern for some diets); frequent consumption aggravates metabolic & dental risk.
INGREDIENTS
SCORE
CONSUMER NOTE
RESEARCH SUBTEXT
Glucose Syrup (Wheat or Corn)80 One of the main sugar sources; contributes heavily to sweetness and calorie load.Rapidly digestible sugars are linked to blood sugar spikes; overconsumption associated with obesity, insulin resistance.
Sugar80Adds additional simple sugar; multiple sugar sources amplify impact.Added sugar is strongly associated with higher risk of metabolic disease, fat accumulation.
Dextrose (from Wheat or Corn)75
Another sugar variant; similar effects as glucose.
Dextrose is rapidly absorbed; similarly contributes to glycemic load.
Gelatin
20
Gives chewy texture; no sugar but animal derived and minimal nutritional benefit.
Often safe; allergen concerns low; some people avoid for religious or personal reasons.
Citric Acid / Malic Acid / Tartaric Acid
30
Adds tartness; generally safe but can affect teeth enamel.
Recognized generally safe; in large exposure could cause minor dental erosion.
Artificial Colors (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1)
75
Good for hydration / body’s electrical functions; excessive sodium can be a concern.
Balanced electrolytes are beneficial; high sodium intake is linked to hypertension etc. The amounts in a serving matter.
Natural Flavors
40
Flavoring agents whose exact composition often unknown; minor risk.
“Natural flavors” can still be complex chemical mixtures; people with allergies or sensitivities may react; overall low risk in small quantities.
Sunflower Oil / Palm Oil (and wax coatings)
60
Used for texture/coating; palm oil often has saturated fat, environmental concerns.
Saturated fats raise LDL cholesterol; waxes add processing; palm oil has both health and sustainability critiques.