Canadian Smarties vs M&Ms: A Comparison of Two Iconic Treats

When it comes to colorful chocolate treats, Canadian Smarties and M&Ms are two popular choices that often find themselves compared. While both are beloved for their chocolatey goodness and vibrant candy shells, there are distinct differences between the two. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see what sets these candies apart.

1. What are Canadian Smarties?

Canadian Smarties are cylindrical-shaped chocolate candies coated with a colorful candy shell. Unlike the American Smarties, which are tart and chalky tablets, Canadian Smarties are more akin to M&Ms in terms of appearance and texture. They are manufactured by Nestlé and are known for their bright colors and smooth milk chocolate center.

2. What are M&Ms?

M&Ms are globally recognized chocolate candies produced by Mars, Incorporated. They are round, coated with a thin candy shell, and filled with milk chocolate (or other variations like peanut butter, almond, etc.). M&Ms come in a variety of colors and are popular for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet chocolate flavor.

3. Flavor and Texture Comparison

Canadian Smarties:

• Chocolate Center: Smooth milk chocolate.
• Candy Shell: Crisp and colorful.
• Overall Texture: Creamy chocolate inside with a crunchy outer shell.

M&Ms:

• Chocolate Center: Creamy milk chocolate (or other fillings).
• Candy Shell: Thin and crisp.
• Overall Texture: Melts in your mouth with a satisfying crunch from the shell.

4. Ingredient Variations

Canadian Smarties:

• Ingredients include milk chocolate (sugar, cocoa butter, milk ingredients, cocoa mass, whey powder, lactose), sugar, wheat flour, modified corn starch, coloring (includes beetroot red, carmine, annatto, turmeric, paprika), and natural flavors.

M&Ms:

• Ingredients include milk chocolate (sugar, chocolate, skim milk, cocoa butter, lactose, milkfat, soy lecithin, salt, artificial flavors), sugar, cornstarch, less than 1% - corn syrup, dextrin, coloring (includes blue 1 lake, yellow 6, red 40, yellow 5, blue 1, red 40 lake, blue 2 lake, yellow 6 lake, yellow 5 lake, blue 2), gum acacia.

5. Availability and Market Reach

Canadian Smarties:

• Widely available in Canada and certain international markets.
• Known for its popularity in Canada as a nostalgic treat.

M&Ms:

• Globally available in various flavors and varieties.
• Found easily in supermarkets and convenience stores worldwide.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, while both Canadian Smarties and M&Ms share similarities in their candy-coated chocolate format, they differ significantly in terms of ingredients, flavor profiles, and market reach. Canadian Smarties are noted for their distinct flavors and availability primarily in Canada, whereas M&Ms offer a broader range of flavors and are widely recognized worldwide. Whether you prefer the creamy milk chocolate of Canadian Smarties or the classic appeal of M&Ms, both candies continue to delight chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.