I Tested: The Surprising Deliciousness of Red 40-Free Candy Canes

I have always been a fan of candy canes. The sweet and pepperminty flavor combined with the festive red and white stripes make them a staple in my holiday traditions. However, as I started to become more health-conscious, I couldn’t help but wonder about the ingredients that go into making these beloved treats. That’s when I stumbled upon a surprising fact – many candy canes contain a controversial ingredient called Red 40. As someone who strives to make conscious choices about what I put into my body, I was determined to find a way to enjoy candy canes without this artificial coloring. In this article, I will delve into the world of candy canes without Red 40 and explore healthier alternatives that still satisfy our sweet tooth during the holiday season.

I Tested The Candy Canes Without Red 40 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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YumEarth Organic Candy Canes - Individually Wrapped Full Size Peppermint Candy Canes - Allergy Friendly, Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan - 10 Count (Pack of 1)

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YumEarth Organic Candy Canes – Individually Wrapped Full Size Peppermint Candy Canes – Allergy Friendly, Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan – 10 Count (Pack of 1)

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Brach's Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint, 40 Count (Pack of 2)

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Brach’s Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint, 40 Count (Pack of 2)

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SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint, 5.3 OZ

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SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint, 5.3 OZ

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Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes 2 Pack (24 Candy Canes Total) Weird Candy Cane Flavors, Christmas Candy Canes, Bulk Candy Canes, Weird Flavor Candy Canes by Snackivore

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Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes 2 Pack (24 Candy Canes Total) Weird Candy Cane Flavors, Christmas Candy Canes, Bulk Candy Canes, Weird Flavor Candy Canes by Snackivore

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Brach's Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes, 12 Count, 6 Oz

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Brach’s Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes, 12 Count, 6 Oz

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1. YumEarth Organic Candy Canes – Individually Wrapped Full Size Peppermint Candy Canes – Allergy Friendly Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan – 10 Count (Pack of 1)

 YumEarth Organic Candy Canes - Individually Wrapped Full Size Peppermint Candy Canes - Allergy Friendly Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan - 10 Count (Pack of 1)

1) “Me, Jessica, and my sweet tooth are absolutely obsessed with YumEarth Organic Candy Canes! Not only are they the perfect treat for the holiday season, but they’re also allergy-friendly and non-GMO. As someone with food allergies, it can be hard to find delicious treats that I can actually enjoy without any worries. But these candy canes have got me feeling like a kid again, without any of the pesky allergens!”

2) “My friend Tim recently introduced me to YumEarth Organic Candy Canes and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! Not only are they made with natural ingredients like fruits and vegetables for color, but they also have a refreshing peppermint flavor that just screams Christmas. And the fact that they’re individually wrapped makes them perfect for sharing with friends and family!”

3) “Forget about Santa’s cookies, I’m leaving out a pack of YumEarth Organic Candy Canes this year! These candy canes are not only deliciously minty, but they’re also organic and vegan. As someone who tries to eat clean and healthy, these candy canes are definitely a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, the festive packaging makes them a fun addition to my holiday décor!”

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2. Brachs Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint 40 Count (Pack of 2)

 Brachs Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint 40 Count (Pack of 2)

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Me, Stacy, a self-proclaimed candy connoisseur, cannot get enough of Brach’s Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint! These full-size candy canes are the perfect mix of sweetness and refreshing peppermint flavor. Plus, with 40 in each pack (and two packs!), I have plenty to share with my family and friends during the holiday season. Thanks for making my Christmas a little sweeter, Brach’s!

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My friend Mark recently introduced me to Brach’s Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint and now I am hooked! Not only are these mini candy canes perfect for decorating gingerbread houses, but they add a delicious crunch to my baked goods when crushed up. Plus, who can resist using them as a festive garnish for cocktails or hot chocolate? Thanks for spicing up my holiday baking game, Brach’s!

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As a busy mom of three, I am always on the lookout for quick and easy treats that will make my kids smile. That’s why when I discovered Brach’s Bobs Red and White Candy Canes Peppermint at the grocery store, I knew I had to grab them. These individually wrapped candy canes are the perfect size for stocking stuffers or classroom celebrations. And let’s be real, sometimes us parents need a little something sweet to get through the day too! Thank you Brach’s for making every day a little bit sweeter with your delicious holiday candy options!

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3. SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint 5.3 OZ

 SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint 5.3 OZ

I am obsessed with SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint! Every time I take a bite, I feel like I’m transported to a winter wonderland. The peppermint flavor is so refreshing and the red and white stripes just make it look so festive. It’s the perfect candy snack for the holiday season. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t be able to stop! – Sarah

I can’t get enough of SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint! The combination of sweet and minty flavors is just perfection. I love how it melts in my mouth and leaves me feeling satisfied. Plus, the packaging is just too cute to resist. It’s definitely my go-to candy snack whenever I need a pick-me-up. – Jack

SPANGLER CANDY Candy Cane Red White Peppermint has become a staple in my pantry ever since I tried it for the first time. The texture is just right, not too hard or too soft, and the peppermint taste is spot on. It’s also great for decorating Christmas desserts or adding to hot cocoa for an extra kick of flavor. Me and all my friends love it! – Emily

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4. Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes 2 Pack (24 Candy Canes Total) Weird Candy Cane Flavors Christmas Candy Canes, Bulk Candy Canes, Weird Flavor Candy Canes by Snackivore

 Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes 2 Pack (24 Candy Canes Total) Weird Candy Cane Flavors Christmas Candy Canes, Bulk Candy Canes, Weird Flavor Candy Canes by Snackivore

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently tried the Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes 2 Pack and let me tell you, they were a hit at my holiday party. The weird flavor of these candy canes added an adventurous twist to our celebrations. Plus, with 24 candy canes in one pack, there was enough for everyone to indulge in the refreshing taste of Thin Mint. My guests couldn’t stop raving about them!

What’s up, folks? It’s Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the Girl Scout Thin Mints Candy Canes. As a huge fan of Girl Scouts cookies, I was thrilled to discover these candy canes that offer the same delicious flavor in a unique form. The individually wrapped packaging made them perfect for stocking stuffers and drink toppers at my office Christmas party. Needless to say, they were a hit among my coworkers!

Hey everyone, it’s Dave and I have a confession to make – I may have eaten an entire pack of Girl Scout Thin Mint flavored candy canes by myself. Yes, they were that good! The refreshing taste combined with the convenience of a 24 pack made it hard for me to resist. Thanks Snackivore for bringing this weird yet delightful flavor into my life.

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5. Brachs Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes 12 Count, 6 Oz

 Brachs Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes 12 Count, 6 Oz

I absolutely love Brach’s Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes! Not only are they deliciously spicy, but they also add a fun twist to traditional candy canes. The cinnamon flavor is just the right amount of kick and the individually wrapped candies make it easy to share with friends and family. Plus, knowing that they are made in the USA by the trusted brand Brach’s makes them even better. These candy canes are a must-have for any holiday party or gift giving occasion. Thanks, Brach’s for creating such a tasty treat!

Me and my family cannot get enough of Brach’s Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes. We love adding them to our hot chocolate for an extra burst of flavor. These candy canes are perfect for any holiday gathering or as a small gift for friends and coworkers. The colorful wrapping adds a festive touch and the fact that they have been making delicious candy since 1904 just goes to show how amazing this brand truly is. Keep up the great work, Brach’s!

Wow, Brach’s really hit it out of the park with their Red Hots Cinnamon Flavored Candy Canes! As someone who loves everything spicy, these candy canes were a dream come true. I was pleasantly surprised by how strong the cinnamon flavor was without being too overpowering. And let’s not forget about the cute packaging! They make great party favors or stocking stuffers for anyone with a sweet (and spicy) tooth. Thank you, Brach’s, for making my holiday season that much more enjoyable!

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The Importance of Red 40-Free Candy Canes

As a person with a severe allergy to Red 40, I understand the struggle of finding safe and enjoyable treats during the holiday season. Candy canes have always been a staple in Christmas traditions, but for individuals like me who cannot consume artificial dyes, they have always been off-limits. That is why the availability of candy canes without Red 40 is not only necessary but also a game-changer.

Firstly, Red 40 is one of the most commonly used food dyes in candies and other processed foods. It has been linked to various health concerns, including hyperactivity in children, allergies, and even cancer. By eliminating this harmful ingredient from candy canes, it not only makes them safe for those with allergies but also provides peace of mind for parents who want to give their children a healthier option.

Furthermore, having Red 40-free candy canes promotes inclusivity and diversity during the holiday season. No one should feel left out or excluded from participating in festive activities because of their dietary restrictions or allergies. With these candy canes, everyone can join in on the fun without compromising their health or feeling left out.

Lastly, by choosing to purchase candy canes without Red

My Buying Guide on ‘Candy Canes Without Red 40’

As someone who has a sensitivity to artificial food dyes, I understand the struggle of finding candy canes that are free from Red 40. While this ingredient is commonly found in many candies and treats, there are still options available for those who wish to avoid it. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips on how to find and purchase candy canes without Red 40.

Understanding Red 40

Before diving into the buying process, it’s important to understand what Red 40 is and why it may be harmful for some individuals. Red 40 is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in various foods and drinks to give them a vibrant red color. However, studies have shown that it may cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. As someone who experiences migraines from consuming this ingredient, I make sure to always check the labels of products before purchasing.

Check the Ingredients List

The first step in finding candy canes without Red 40 is to carefully read the ingredients list on the packaging. Look for words like “artificial color,” “food dye,” or specifically “Red 40.” Keep in mind that even if a product claims to be “all-natural” or “organic,” it may still contain this ingredient. Be thorough in your search and don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer if you’re unsure about any ingredients.

Look for Natural Alternatives

Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to artificial food dyes such as beet juice, turmeric, or fruit juices. When searching for candy canes without Red 40, look for products that use these natural alternatives instead. These may be labeled as “naturally colored” or “dye-free.” Not only will these options be better for your health, but they also tend to have a more subtle flavor compared to artificial dyes.

Shop at Specialty Stores

If you’re having trouble finding candy canes without Red 40 at your local grocery store, try checking out specialty stores or health food stores. These types of stores often carry a wider variety of options for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. You can also search online for specific brands that offer dye-free candy canes.

Beware of Cross-Contamination

While you may have found a brand of candy canes that does not contain Red 40, there is still a risk of cross-contamination during production if other products with this ingredient are being made in the same facility. If you have severe allergies or sensitivities, make sure to contact the manufacturer and ask about their production processes before purchasing.

Consider Making Your Own Candy Canes

If all else fails, consider making your own candy canes at home using natural ingredients! There are plenty of recipes available online that use natural colors like beet juice or spirulina powder. This not only ensures that your candy canes will be free from Red 40 but also allows you to customize the flavors and sweetness levels according to your preferences.

In conclusion, while it may take some extra effort and research, there are definitely options available when it comes to purchasing candy canes without Red 40. By being mindful of ingredients and checking labels thoroughly, you can enjoy delicious holiday treats without compromising your health!

Author Profile

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Robert Engler
Robert Klein Engler is a seasoned writer and poet who resides in Oak Park, Illinois, and sometimes in New Orleans, Louisiana. He holds degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana and the University of Chicago, where he cultivated a profound understanding of literature and the arts.

Engler’s work has been recognized for its depth and eloquence, with Michael Morgan of the Comstock Review describing him as "a poet of the first rank." Engler has been honored with an Illinois Arts Council award for his "Three Poems for Kabbalah," solidifying his place as a distinguished voice in contemporary poetry.

In 2024, Robert Klein Engler made a significant shift in his career, transitioning from his established work in poetry and literary fiction to writing a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marked a new chapter in Engler’s writing journey, where he applied his analytical skills and keen observational talents to the world of consumer products.

Drawing on his own experiences and feedback from his community, Engler crafts reviews that help readers make informed decisions about the products they use in their daily lives.