Snacks & Sweets

Calories in Cotton Candy

Cotton candy is a spun sugar confection that consists almost entirely of sucrose with small amounts of flavoring and food coloring. It is characterized by its light, airy texture and high glycemic index due to its pure sugar content.

Cotton Candy
394
calories per 100 g
Protein
0g
Carbs
98g
Fat
0.2g
Fiber
0g
Sugar
62.9g
Sodium38mg
Nutrition data sourced from FatSecret. Values may vary based on preparation and serving size.

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Common Variations

VariationServingCaloriesProteinCarbsFat
1 stick (28g)1 stick (28g)1100g27.4g0.1g
1 oz (28g)1 oz (28g)1120g27.8g0.1g
1 serving (14 g)1 serving (14 g)550g13.7g0g

Health Benefits

1

Provides a quick source of glucose for an immediate, short-term energy boost.

2

Naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free, making it a lower-fat alternative to creamy desserts.

3

Sodium-free, which is beneficial for individuals monitoring their salt intake.

Nutrition Tips

  • Be mindful of the high sugar content which can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose levels.
  • Cotton candy provides 'empty calories,' meaning it offers energy without essential vitamins or minerals.
  • Rinse your mouth with water after consuming to help prevent sugar from sitting on your tooth enamel.
  • Because it is mostly air, it is easy to consume large amounts without feeling full; stick to pre-packaged portions.
  • Consider pairing it with a source of protein or fiber later in the day to help stabilize your energy levels.
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GAYA Tracking Tip

Since cotton candy is mostly air, photograph the bag or container next to your hand so GAYA can accurately judge the volume and density of the sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cotton candy gluten-free?+

Yes, traditional cotton candy is made only from sugar, flavors, and colors, all of which are naturally gluten-free.

How many calories are in a typical carnival serving?+

A standard carnival-sized stick usually contains about 1 ounce of sugar, which equates to roughly 110-115 calories.

Does cotton candy contain any allergens?+

While the base is just sugar, some commercial brands may be processed in facilities that handle soy, dairy, or nuts. Always check the label.

Track Cotton Candy calories with just a photo

Snap a photo of your food — GAYA calculates calories, protein, carbs, and fat in seconds.

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