Are you a fan of sweet treats and need a quick snack on-the-go? Look no further than 1 package of Mega M&M's! With only 200 calories per package, it's a perfect snack to help satisfy that sweet tooth.
But before you indulge, it's important to know the nutritional information of Mega M&M's. Let's dive into the serving size and calorie count, sugar and fat content, protein, ingredients, and allergy information to make an informed snacking decision.
In this article, we'll not only explore the nutritional value of Mega M&M's, but also provide some mindful snacking suggestions to help you stay on track with your health goals.
Serving Size and Calories
According to the package, the serving size is 1 package or 45 grams, and contains 200 calories. This means consuming one package fills only a small portion of your daily caloric intake. But don't let that fool you into thinking Mega M&M's are a guilt-free snack. Overindulging can quickly add up and lead to weight gain over time. It's important to practice portion control and be mindful of your snacking habits. Consider sharing a package with a friend or enjoying half now and saving the other half for later.
Nutrition Facts
In addition to the 200 calories, Mega M&M's also contain 23 grams of sugar, 9 grams of fat, and 2 grams of protein. While the protein content is minimal, the sugar and fat content is relatively high. To put it into perspective, the American Heart Association recommends limiting daily intake to 25 grams of added sugar for women and 36 grams for men. One package of Mega M&M's contains almost the entirety of that recommendation for women. It's important to consider the nutritional value of your snacks and choose options that fit within your dietary needs and goals.
Sugar Content
As mentioned, Mega M&M's contain 23 grams of sugar per package. This is equivalent to almost 6 teaspoons of sugar. Regularly consuming high amounts of sugar can lead to negative health effects such as weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and tooth decay. Opt for alternatives such as fresh fruit or dark chocolate to balance your sweet cravings with nutritional value.
Fat Content
Mega M&M's contain 9 grams of fat per package. This includes 5 grams of saturated fat. Saturated fat is known to increase bad cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. It's important to keep saturated fat intake to a minimum. Choose snacks with healthier fat options such as nuts or avocado to help keep your heart healthy and happy.
Protein Content
While Mega M&M's aren't a significant source of protein, they do contain 2 grams per package. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. Consider pairing Mega M&M's with a source of protein such as Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg for a more well-rounded snack. This will help keep you fuller for longer and prevent overindulging in sweet treats.
Ingredients
Mega M&M's contain milk chocolate (sugar, chocolate, cocoa butter, skim milk, milkfat, lactose, soy lecithin, salt, artificial flavor), sugar, less than 2% of coloring (includes yellow 5, red 40, blue 1, yellow 6, blue2), corn syrup, dextrin, cornstarch, and gum acacia. Some of these ingredients such as artificial flavors and coloring have been linked to negative health effects. It's important to read ingredient labels if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences. Consider choosing snacks with whole food ingredients and minimal additives for optimal health benefits.
Mega M&M's contain milk and soy ingredients and may also contain peanuts, tree nuts, and wheat. If you have any food allergies or sensitivities, make sure to read the label and allergen information carefully. Consider choosing snacks with alternative ingredients to accommodate your dietary needs.
M&M's Nutritional Comparison
Mega M&M's are a larger version of the classic M&M's candy. But how do they compare nutritionally? A standard serving size of M&M's (1.74 oz or 49 grams) contains 240 calories, 10 grams of fat, and 34 grams of sugar. So while Mega M&M's have a slightly lower calorie count, they have a higher sugar and fat content. Consider choosing snack sizes or fun-sized packs of M&M's to help limit your sugar and fat intake while still indulging in the classic candy.
Recommended Serving Suggestions
While Mega M&M's can be a tasty treat, it's important to practice moderation and portion control. Consider portioning out your Mega M&M's into a small bowl or container to help control how much you consume. Pair with a source of protein such as nuts or cheese for a more well-rounded snack option.
Mindful Snacking
Snacking can often become mindless and habitual, leading to overconsumption and unhealthy eating habits. To prevent this, try keeping a food journal or tracking your snack intake to make yourself more aware of what you're eating. Also, consider choosing snacks with a balance of macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fat) to help keep you fuller for longer and prevent overindulging in sweet treats.
Choose snacks with whole food ingredients and minimal additives for optimal health benefits.
FAQs About Mega M&M's (200 calories)
1. How many Mega M&M's are in one package?
There are about 20-25 Mega M&M's in one package, depending on the size of each piece.
2. What is the nutritional value of Mega M&M's?
One serving or package of Mega M&M's (1.48 oz or 42g) contains 200 calories, 9g of fat, 28g of carbohydrates, 25g of sugar, and 2g of protein. It also has 1g of dietary fiber and 20mg of sodium.
3. Are Mega M&M's gluten-free?
No, Mega M&M's are not gluten-free. They contain ingredients such as wheat and barley malt, which may cause an allergic reaction for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
4. Are Mega M&M's suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Mega M&M's are suitable for vegetarians. They do not contain any meat or animal by-products.
5. Can Mega M&M's be stored for a long time?
Yes, Mega M&M's can be stored for a long time as long as they are kept in a cool and dry place. They have a shelf life of about 10-12 months when stored in their original packaging.