Halloween candy without the scary ingredients

To enjoy a less spooky Halloween, let's take a look at some of the ingredients you may want to avoid in your Halloween candy.

Don’t worry, I'm not suggesting you skip out on all the fun! There are several alternatives to enjoy without the toxic ingredients!

Here are a few things to look out for when it comes to commercial sweets...

Vanillin and artificial flavors - Vanillin is an artificial vanilla flavor made from wood or petrochemicals. Many artificial flavors are made from petroleum, along with solvents, emulsifiers, flavor modifiers, and preservatives that aren’t labeled, so you’re not sure exactly what you’re eating.

Instead, look for treats that list ALL of their ingredients like Honey Mamas.

Artificial colors - Similar to artificial flavors, artificial colors are derived from petroleum. These dyes are linked to hyperactivity in children and some cancers. Caramel color, the most common artificial color, contains the chemical 4-MEl which is classified as a possible carcinogen.

Instead, look for treats with no coloring or colored with organic concentrate like Yum Earth Organic Pops.

Partially Hydrogenated Oils - The main source of trans fat in our food that contributes to heart disease. The FDA is requiring that companies remove this ingredient within 3 years.

Until then, look out for this ingredient in your Halloween candy!

Growth Hormones - Unless it’s certified organic, much of the dairy in chocolate candy comes from conventionally raised cows raised with synthetic hormones. These hormones are banned in other countries and linked to an increased risk of cancer in humans.

Instead, look for certified organic chocolate like Hu Kitchen.

Preservatives - Many of the preservatives found in conventional candy have been linked to

allergies, asthma, and other health conditions.

Instead, look for candy that is preservative-free like UNREAL.

Sugar - Candy can contain many different types of sugar; glucose syrup, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, and confectioner’s glaze, just to name a few. These aren’t the healthy sugars found in fruits but the processed, inflammatory sugars you want to avoid.

Instead, look for candy with no artificial sweeteners or added sugar, like Smart Sweets. Enjoy your treats without the tricks, friends!