Joybuy Insights

Choosing sweets, chewing gum and dog treats without making the wrong choice

A bag of fruit sweets, sugar-free chewing gum or a dog treat might seem simple to order. But the most important differences are often not shown on the front of the pack. Ingredients, portion size, age guidance and how long a product lasts all help determine whether it’s right for your household.

Common pitfalls when shopping online

1. Assuming “sugar-free” means suitable in unlimited quantities
Sugar-free chewing gum often contains polyols such as sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol or isomalt. The nutrition table may show 0 grams of sugar, but according to the product information, consuming too much can have a laxative effect. Also check whether it contains aspartame. This matters for anyone who needs to avoid phenylalanine.

2. Assuming a fun flavour name means a simple recipe
Fruit sweets may contain fruit juice concentrate, but can also be made mainly from glucose syrup and sugar. For example, Amos 4D Gummy Blocks are made primarily from glucose syrup, sugar, gelatine and 2.2% apple juice concentrate. The blocks come in different fruit flavours, but they are not a substitute for fruit.

3. Treating a dog treat as a complete dental care routine or a meal
Chew sticks for dogs can be a reward and encourage chewing. However, they don’t automatically replace daily toothbrushing or a check-up with a vet. Make sure you choose the right size and age range, and supervise your dog while they chew. Dog treats also count towards their daily calorie intake.

Important things to check

1. Ingredients, allergens and nutritional information

Check the full ingredients list rather than relying on claims such as “natural”, “with fruit” or “high protein”. For sweets, look at:

  • the sugar content per 100 grams;
  • gelatine and its animal source;
  • colourings and flavourings;
  • allergens such as milk, soya, nuts or gluten.

For chewing gum, sweeteners are the main thing to check. According to the product information, Mentos Pure Fresh Cherry contains xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol and aspartame, among other ingredients, and lists soya as an allergen. Sportlife Strawberry and Blueberry contains no sugar, but does contain various sweeteners. So “sugar-free” doesn’t mean every ingredient is suitable for everyone.

For protein bars, check fibre, fat and allergens as well as the protein content. Holie’s Chewy Bar Double Chocolate contains 23% protein and 21% fibre per 100 grams, but also contains spelt, wheat, hazelnut and barley. This makes the label important if you have allergies or follow a specific diet.

2. Age, dosage and portions

Children’s vitamins are food supplements, not sweets. Davitamon Junior 3+ is intended for children aged 3 and over. The recommended dose on the label is 1 to 2 chewable tablets a day. Do not exceed the maximum daily amount. Take into account any other supplements that already contain vitamin D or minerals.

The same principle applies to dogs. A treat or supplement should be suitable for your dog’s weight and daily diet. For example, the recommended amount of some dog supplements ranges from one soft chew for small dogs to several for larger dogs. If you’re unsure, or your dog is taking medication, is pregnant or has an existing health condition, it’s best to speak to a vet.

3. Material, size and supervision

When choosing dental care products for dogs, check the recommended weight range and texture. According to the product information, Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Small Dogs are intended for dogs weighing 5 to 10 kg and aged 4 months or over. The product description mentions an X-shape and daily feeding instructions. The stated reduction in tartar build-up of up to 80% is a claim made in the brand’s product information, not a guarantee for every dog.

A chew toy should be large enough that it can’t be swallowed whole. The zeze Bamboo Chew Toy is approximately 12 cm long without the leaves and 22 cm with them. Check the material regularly for cracks, deep grooves or loose parts. Replace the toy if it’s damaged, and supervise your dog, especially the first few times they use it.

Product choices for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Amos 4D Gummy Blocks - Mixed Fruits Flavour 72g

Amos 4D Gummy Blocks - Mixed Fruits Flavor 72g

Why it suits this profile: A small bag of edible building blocks for families looking for a fun snack without buying a large pack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly lists the fruit flavours and ingredients, so you can see that apple juice concentrate makes up only a small proportion.

Main benefit & highlights

72 grams, three listed fruit flavours and a playful shape. The label states that it contains 52 grams of sugar per 100 grams.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Holie's Chewy Bar Double Chocolate - 3x35g

Holie's Chewy Bar Double Chocolate - 3x35g

Why it suits this profile: A good choice if you’re looking for a compact bar with protein and fibre to enjoy on the go, at work or after exercise.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The nutritional information and allergens are clearly listed. Here, “0% added sugar” doesn’t mean the product is sugar-free.

Main benefit & highlights

23% protein and 21% fibre per 100 grams. Also contains spelt, wheat, hazelnut and barley.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
Excellent Pets Dog Mobility Soft Chews 60 Treats

Excellent Pets Dog Mobility Soft Chews 60 Treats

Why it suits this profile: For dog owners looking to give their pet a daily supplement in a soft treat form, with a dose that can be adjusted to their dog’s weight.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack lists the ingredients, analytical constituents and a dose based on weight. It’s complementary pet food, not a replacement for a normal diet.

Main benefit & highlights

Contains glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin sulphate and green-lipped mussel powder; 60 treats with a total weight of 340 grams.

Suitable for: Families with a small dog
Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Small Dogs

Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Small Dogs

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for daily dental care if your dog weighs between 5 and 10 kg and is over 4 months old.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the weight range, minimum age of 4 months, composition and one stick per day. Supervision is still necessary.

Main benefit & highlights

X-shaped chew stick, 1.3% fat according to the analysis and a recommended amount of one stick per day.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.

Frequently asked questions about sweets, chewing gum and dog treats

Is sugar-free chewing gum suitable for children?

It depends on the child’s age, the ingredients and how the gum is used. Check the sweeteners, whether it contains aspartame and any age warnings. Polyols can have a laxative effect if consumed in excess. Chewing gum is also unsuitable for young children who have not yet learnt to chew safely.

How long can an opened pack be used for?

Always follow the date and storage advice on the packaging. Sweets and chewing gum generally keep their texture better when stored in a cool, dry place in a sealed pack. Reseal dog treats properly after opening. Chew toys don’t have a fixed lifespan: inspect them regularly and replace them as soon as they become damaged.

Are dog supplements needed alongside regular food?

Not necessarily. Dog supplements, calming dog treats and joint supplements for dogs are all complementary products. Only choose a product with clear dosage instructions, ingredients and information about which dogs it’s intended for. If your dog has ongoing symptoms, takes medication or you’re unsure whether they need a supplement, it’s better to ask a vet than to combine products yourself.