Now and Later Candy: A Comprehensive Guide to the Sweet Treat

Introduction

Now and Later candy, a vibrant and chewy confection, has delighted sweet lovers for generations. With its tantalizing flavors and irresistible texture, it has become a beloved indulgence enjoyed by people of all ages. This article delves into the captivating world of Now and Later candy, exploring its history, ingredients, nutritional value, and the myriad benefits it offers.

Historical Origins

The origin of Now and Later candy can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1918, the Phoenix Candy Company in Brooklyn, New York, created a candy called "Peach Blossoms." These candies were initially sold as a loose mix, but in 1949, the company developed a new packaging concept that would revolutionize the candy industry: individually wrapped, fruit-flavored taffy squares.

Ingredients and Nutritional Value

Now and Later candy is primarily composed of corn syrup, sugar, and maltodextrin. Other ingredients may include natural and artificial flavors, food colorings, and citric acid. A single 24-piece bag of Now and Later Original Chewy Candy provides approximately:

• 230 calories
• 8 grams of fat
• 55 grams of carbohydrates
• 1 gram of protein
• 2 grams of dietary fiber

Flavors and Varieties

Over the years, Now and Later has expanded its flavor offerings to cater to the diverse tastes of its consumers. Among the most popular flavors are:

• Original
• Cherry
• Grape
• Watermelon
• Strawberry
• Tropical Fruit

In addition to the traditional chewy taffy squares, Now and Later also offers other candy variations, such as:

• Mini Chews
• Extreme Sour Chews
• Splits
• Gummy Bears

Benefits of Now and Later Candy

Despite its high sugar content, Now and Later candy does offer some potential benefits:

• Convenience: Individually wrapped, Now and Later candy is easy to carry and share.
• Portion Control: The single-serve packaging helps promote portion control, reducing the risk of overindulgence.
• Allergy-Friendly: Now and Later candy is free from common allergens, such as nuts, gluten, and dairy.
• Stress Relief: Chewing candy can provide a sense of relaxation and reduce stress.

Pros and Cons

Like any candy, Now and Later has both advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Delicious and satisfying: Now and Later candy has a unique, chewy texture and a wide range of flavors.
• Convenient and portable: The individually wrapped pieces make it easy to enjoy on the go.
• Affordable: Now and Later candy is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of candy.

Cons:

• High in sugar: Now and Later candy contains a significant amount of added sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.
• Artificial ingredients: Some Now and Later candies contain artificial flavors and colorings, which may be a concern for some consumers.
• Not suitable for diabetics: The high sugar content makes Now and Later candy unsuitable for individuals with diabetes.

Effective Strategies for Enjoying Now and Later Candy in Moderation

To enjoy Now and Later candy without compromising your health, consider the following strategies:

• Limit your intake: Stick to one or two servings per week to avoid excessive sugar consumption.
• Pair with other foods: Eat Now and Later candy alongside other healthy snacks, such as fruits or vegetables, to balance out the sugar content.
• Choose original flavors: The original Now and Later candies contain less added sugar than the Extreme Sour and Gummy Bear varieties.
• Indulge occasionally: Treat Now and Later candy as a special treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Why Moderation Matters

Excessive consumption of Now and Later candy can lead to a range of health problems, including:

• Weight gain and obesity
• Tooth decay
• Elevated blood sugar levels
• Increased risk of heart disease
• Digestive problems

Case Studies

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effects of excessive sugar consumption on health. According to the American Heart Association, adults should limit their added sugar intake to no more than 25 grams per day for women and 36 grams per day for men. A single 24-piece bag of Now and Later Original Chewy Candy contains approximately 30 grams of added sugar, exceeding the recommended daily intake for women.

A study published in the journal Obesity found that individuals who consumed more than 20% of their daily calories from added sugar had a 45% higher risk of becoming obese compared to those who consumed less than 10% of their calories from added sugar.

Effective Strategies for Reducing Sugar Intake

If you're looking to reduce your sugar intake, consider the following strategies:

• Read food labels carefully and choose foods with low sugar content.
• Replace sugary drinks with water, unsweetened tea, or coffee.
• Choose whole, unprocessed foods over processed snacks and candy.
• Cook meals at home more often to control the amount of added sugar in your food.
• Gradually reduce the amount of sugar you add to your coffee, tea, or other beverages.

Conclusion

Now and Later candy has been a beloved treat for generations. While it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, it's important to be aware of its high sugar content and potential health effects. By limiting your intake, pairing it with healthy snacks, and choosing original flavors, you can enjoy this sweet treat without compromising your well-being. Remember, moderation is key to a healthy and enjoyable life!

Additional Information

• Now and Later candy is a registered trademark of Ferrara Candy Company.
• The candy is available in over 60 countries worldwide.
• Over 200 million bags of Now and Later candy are sold annually.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Nutritional Information for Now and Later Original Chewy Candy (24-piece bag)

Table 2: Comparison of Now and Later Candy Flavors

| Flavor | Original | Cherry | Grape | Watermelon | Strawberry | Tropical Fruit | Extreme Sour | Gummy Bears |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Content | 30 grams | 30 grams | 30 grams | 30 grams | 30 grams | 30 grams | 40 grams | 40 grams |

Table 3: Population Data on Sugar Consumption

Call to Action

Make a conscious effort to reduce your sugar intake today. By following the strategies outlined in this article, you can enjoy sweet treats like Now and Later candy in moderation while maintaining your health and well-being. Remember, balance and portion control are key!