Reese’s Pieces are a popular candy produced by The Hershey Company. They are small, bite-sized pieces of peanut butter candy covered in a hard candy shell. Reese’s Pieces come in a variety of colors and are a delicious snack enjoyed by many. However, with any food, it’s important to pay attention to serving sizes to avoid overeating. In this article, we will look at what constitutes a standard serving size of Reese’s Pieces, how many pieces are in a serving, and some tips for keeping portions under control.
What is Considered One Serving?
According to the nutrition information on the Reese’s Pieces packaging, the standard serving size is considered to be 40 grams, or about 1.4 oz. This is the amount used for the nutrition facts listings you see on the wrapper.
40 grams of Reese’s Pieces equals approximately 55 individual candy pieces. So if you were counting out a single portion to eat, 55 Reese’s Pieces would be the recommended amount.
To visualize what 40 grams or 55 pieces looks like, it’s about 1/4 cup of Reese’s Pieces. If you were to measure it out, using a measuring cup is an easy way to get a sense of the serving size.
Serving Sizes in Typical Reese’s Packages
Reese’s Pieces come in a variety of package sizes, ranging from small single-serve pouches to large bags. Here is how the serving size stacks up against some typical Reese’s Pieces packages:
– Fun size pouch (1.5 oz): Approximately 1 serving
– Small pouch (2.75 oz): Approximately 2 servings
– Medium laydown bag (7 oz): Approximately 5 servings
– Large laydown bag (14 oz): Approximately 10 servings
– Jumbo bag (28 oz): Approximately 20 servings
As you can see, the standard single-serve pouches contain about 1 serving of 55 pieces. But as the packages get larger, they start to contain multiple servings. This highlights the importance of portion control when eating from larger bags.
Tips for Monitoring Serving Sizes
Here are some tips to help keep your Reese’s Pieces portions in check:
– Read the package label and take note of the serving size. This will give you a reference point for how much a single portion is.
– Measure out a serving into a small bowl or cup instead of eating directly from the package.
– Count out 55 pieces if you want the most accuracy.
– Only allow yourself to have one serving portion at a time. Don’t bring the entire bag with you.
– Consider buying single-serve pouches to get pre-portioned amounts.
– Share larger packages with others to help avoid overeating.
– Be mindful while you’re snacking and track how many servings you’ve had.
– Keep an eye on your total daily calories if weight management is a goal.
The Nutrition Facts for One Serving
Now that we know what constitutes a serving size, let’s look at the nutrition information in a 40 gram serving of Reese’s Pieces:
| Nutrition Facts | Per 40g Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 55mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 24g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Includes Added Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 3g |
As you can see, a standard 40 gram serving contains 200 calories, 9g of fat, 24g of carbs, and 3g of protein. It also contains 17g of added sugars, which accounts for a majority of the total carbohydrates.
This nutrition information can help guide your choices when planning for a serving of Reese’s Pieces. If trying to limit sugars or calories, you may want to adjust your portion size accordingly.
Serving Sizes for Kids
When it comes to kids, smaller serving sizes may be more appropriate. Here are some recommendations for child and teen serving sizes of Reese’s Pieces:
– Toddlers (1-3 years): 10-15 pieces
– Preschoolers (4-6 years): 15-20 pieces
– Young children (7-10 years): 25-30 pieces
– Older children (10-12 years): 35-40 pieces
– Teens: 40-55 pieces (standard adult serving)
It’s generally recommended to start with smaller servings for younger kids and increase gradually as they get older. Serving sizes will also depend on your child’s individual calorie needs. Monitor their portion sizes and aim to teach them about listening to hunger cues and practicing moderation when snacking.
Serving Sizes Compared to Other Candy
How does the serving size of Reese’s Pieces compare to other popular candies? Here’s a look at standard serving sizes per 40 grams for reference:
| Candy Type | Serving Size (40g) |
|---|---|
| Reese’s Pieces | 55 pieces |
| M&M’s | 51 pieces |
| Skittles | 59 pieces |
| Starburst | 40g is 2.5 pieces |
| Gummy Bears | About 32 bears |
| Jelly Beans | Around 32 beans |
| Peanut Butter M&M’s | 43 pieces |
As you can see, serving sizes run fairly similar among most bite-sized candies, coming out to 30-60 pieces per 40 gram serving on average. Starburst is an exception since the individual pieces are much larger.
So if you’re accustomed to eating a certain portion of M&M’s or Skittles, the serving size of Reese’s Pieces will be comparable. Keeping these standard serving sizes in mind can help with portion control across all your favorite candy snacks.
Serving Size on a 2000 Calorie Diet
For someone following a standard 2000 calorie diet, how would Reese’s Pieces fit into the daily servings?
Here are some general guidelines, though individual needs may vary:
– 1-2 servings (55-110 pieces) could fit into a 2000 calorie day, depending on what else is eaten. This would provide 200-400 calories from Reese’s Pieces.
– Limiting added sugars to 25-50 grams is recommended, so 1-2 servings would fit within that range.
– Going over 3 servings may start to crowd out other important foods that offer more nutrients.
– Pay attention to your total fat and saturated fat for the day if consuming multiple servings.
– Work the treats into your calories rather than adding on top. Or, swap out other high calorie foods to “make room” for the candy as part of your daily limits.
In conclusion, one or two 40 gram servings of Reese’s Pieces can be accommodated as part of a balanced 2000 calorie diet, keeping in mind the totals for added sugar, fat and calories for your day.
High Calorie Options
While a 40 gram serving is the standard size, Reese’s Pieces also come in some bigger packages with higher calorie counts. Here’s a look at some of the larger options:
– Party size bag (18 oz): 1020 calories per bag
– King size bag (2.8 oz): 500 calories per bag
– Giant pouch (7.4 oz): 1300 calories per pouch
– Movie theatre box (3.5 oz): 610 calories per box
As you can see, the “king size” and “giant” versions contain 2-3 times the calories of a regular serving. Movie theatre boxes are also super-sized. So if you’re buying these larger packages, be very mindful of portion control. Stick to the standard serving size within these bigger bags or share with others.
Tips for Serving at Parties
Reese’s Pieces are a popular candy to have at parties, events, movie nights, and holidays like Halloween. Here are some tips to keep portions in check when serving them to groups:
– Use single-serve pouches as favors or in goody bags rather than large bags.
– Portion into snack bags or cups at a 55 piece count.
– Display in small bowls around the party rather than huge bulk bowls.
– Provide a mix of candy options rather than just Reese’s overload.
– Buy mini Reese’s Pieces boxes for a built-in single serving.
– Pay attention to how much people are eating over the course of the party.
– Store leftover large bags out of direct sight.
– Measure your own portions if grabbing from a communal bowl.
Storing Reese’s Pieces
To keep Reese’s Pieces fresh once opened, proper storage is important:
– Keep unopened packages in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
– Once opened, store in a tightly sealed container or resealable bag.
– To maximize freshness, store in the refrigerator or freezer. They can be kept for up to 6 months frozen.
– If storing in the fridge or freezer, let come to room temperature before eating for best texture.
– Pieces may lose their crunch over time if exposed to air or humidity. Discard any stale pieces.
– Avoid storage in hot places like a pantry or car, as heat can melt the candies.
With airtight, controlled storage, Reese’s Pieces can maintain quality and taste for extended periods, even if a package takes a while to finish.
Making Your Own Reese’s Pieces
Looking for a homemade version? Here is a simple recipe to make your own Reese’s Pieces copycat candy:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 12 oz. chocolate candy coating
– 1/4 cup shortening
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together peanut butter and butter until smooth and combined. Add powdered sugar and mix well. The mixture should form a dough that’s firm but still pliable.
2. Roll dough into small balls, about 1/2 inch each. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Freeze balls for 1 hour. This helps them hold their shape.
4. Melt chocolate candy coating and shortening together until smooth. Dip each frozen peanut butter ball into melted chocolate to coat.
5. Place back on parchment paper and let chocolate set fully, about 30 minutes.
6. Enjoy your homemade copycat Reese’s Pieces! Store in an airtight container.
Make these for parties, gifts, or just for peanut butter chocolate bliss at home. Adjust the shape and size as desired.
Reese’s Pieces Nutrition Facts
If you want to look up the exact nutrition information on Reese’s Pieces, check the packaging label or visit the manufacturer’s website. Here are the key facts for a standard 40 gram serving:
– 200 calories
– 9g fat (3.5g saturated)
– 24g carbs
– 17g sugar (0g added sugar)
– 55mg sodium
– 3g protein
Be mindful that nutrition facts may vary slightly between different Reese’s Pieces products, such as dark chocolate or cookie crunch versions. But in general, a 40 gram serving contains around 200 calories and up to 20g of carbs and sugar.
Reese’s Pieces Ingredients
Reese’s Pieces are made with just a few simple ingredients:
– Sugar
– Peanuts
– Peanut Butter (peanuts, sugar, palm oil, salt)
– Dextrose
– Cornstarch
– Less than 2%: Salt, Soy Lecithin, Vanillin (artificial flavor)
– Colors added (varies depending on color)
The ingredients list reveals that peanuts and peanut butter are at the heart of Reese’s Pieces, providing protein. But much of the candy consists of sugar or sugar-based ingredients like corn syrup solids. This gives them their sweet taste but also drives up the calorie and carb count.
Are Reese’s Pieces Gluten Free?
Reese’s Pieces are considered gluten free according to both the Hershey Company and consumer reports. The candies do not contain any wheat, barley, rye or other gluten-containing ingredients. This makes them safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, they are produced in facilities that also process wheat-based foods. So there is a small risk of cross-contamination. Overall though, Reese’s Pieces are a gluten free candy option.
Are Reese’s Pieces Vegan?
No, Reese’s Pieces are not vegan. While they don’t contain any dairy ingredients, Reese’s Pieces are made with peanut butter that contains palm oil and salt. Peanuts are also a legume crop that some strict vegans avoid. So for those following a completely plant-based vegan diet, Reese’s Pieces would not be considered permissible. However, they are vegetarian, as they do not contain any animal derived ingredients outside of the palm oil.
Low Calorie and Low Sugar Options
For those looking for lower calorie or low sugar options, there are a few alternatives:
– Mini Reese’s Pieces are slightly smaller with about 4 calories per piece.
– Choose small single-serve pouches and stick to one portion.
– Mix in a few pieces with another lower sugar snack like popcorn or nuts.
– Opt for sugar-free candy options instead like chocolate chips or peanut butter cups.
– Choose high protein, low sugar snacks like yogurt, cheese or fruit to satisfy cravings.
While Reese’s Pieces are difficult to make very low in sugar or calories, controlling portion sizes and substitutions can help reduce intake for those monitoring these factors.
Conclusion
When eaten in moderation, Reese’s Pieces can be an enjoyable candy treat. Paying attention to serving sizes is key to keeping this snack food healthy. According to the standard nutrition facts, one serving of Reese’s Pieces is 40 grams, equal to about 55 pieces. This contains around 200 calories and up to 20 grams of carbs and sugar. Be mindful of your total daily calories, added sugars, and saturated fat when enjoying Reese’s Pieces. Focus on your own portions rather than overeating from a shared package. Reese’s Pieces are delicious when consumed mindfully as part of an overall balanced diet.
