Can You Eat Starburst Wrappers? (Is It Safe?)

While candy wrappers are usually made from not naturally friendly materials, some wrappers are edible. Just like Starburst wrappers.

The bright Starburst wrappers look so tempting and are really popular among children and adults. But many people are still wondering if Starburst wrappers are safe to eat.

If you are one of these people then keep on reading.

Can you eat Starburst wrappers?

Yes, you can eat Starburst wrappers and they are non toxic. However, these wrappers are not designed to be eaten. 

In other words, Starburst wrappers are edible but they are not made to be consumed. But if you intentionally eat the wrappers or accidentally eat it, it’s okay. The wrappers will do you no harm.

Also keep in mind that you should avoid eating Starburst wrappers in large quantities as they might obstruct your digestive system. 

Starburst Original Fruit Chews 2 Pounds BULK 200 Pieces Approximately - FRESH

Should you eat Starburst wrappers?

No. Although Starburst wrappers are edible, the company did not market it for consumption. In addition, eating a wrapper is not a good idea. Aside from the fact that it is not easy to digest, there is a hygiene issue.

Candy wrappers are made to keep the candies fresh, protect it from any dirt or bacteria. For this reason, wrappers are the outer layer and while protecting candies, they may get dirty or dusty.

The best thing to do is just eat the candy and dispose the Starburst wrapper properly. 

What are Starburst wrappers made of?

The Starburst wrappers are made of wax paper that’s why you can feel the plastic-y feel. The wrappers of the Starburst are biodegradable and eco-friendly.

Most candy wrappers are made of aluminum or foil paper while Starburst candy wrappers are made of eco-friendly materials. For this reason, many people believe that candy wrappers from Starburst are safe to eat. Nevertheless, I highly suggest you throw them away instead of consuming them.

Can Starburst wrappers be digested? 

It’s unlikely that your digestive system will properly digest the Starburst wrappers, especially if you consumed a lot of it. 

Starburst wrappers are made of wax and your system can’t properly digest the materials that have been soaked in wax. It just will just pass through your system and will leave your body intact.

Why do some people eat Starburst wrappers?

Some people eat Starburst wrappers out of curiosity while others find it easier to eat along with the candy than removing the candy from them. 

Whatever reason these people might have for eating Starbust wrappers, you shouldn’t follow. Eating it doesn’t mean it tastes good. 

In fact, eating it along with the candy can only affect the flavor of the candy. The wrapper doesn’t contain flavoring or good texture, so it can only detract from the enjoyment of the candy.

Are Starburst wrappers biodegradable? 

Yes. Starburst wrappers are made of wax paper so they are biodegradable.

Biodegradable products are eco-friendly and prevent pollution. They are easily consumed and dissolved by bacteria or other living organisms.

What happens if you eat Starburst wrappers?

Starburst wrappers are edible but not marketed for consumption. While it is made of wax, it might cause discomfort or inflammation in your stomach. So it is still best just to throw it after unwrapping the candy.

Are starburst wrappers recyclable?

No, Starburst wrappers are not recyclable. It is made of wax paper mixed with paper, making it biodegradable and compostable, but not recyclable.

History of Starburst

It was in 1960 when Starburst was invented in the United Kingdom. It is said that the candies were called Opal Fruits by Peter Pfeffer, the person who invented Starburst. 

There were simpler flavors of the candies back then. The flavors include  strawberry, orange, lime and lemon.

Pfeffer wanted to produce the candies on a large scale so he introduced the candies to the Mars Company who brought the candies to the UK markets five years later. They then introduced the product to the US market in 1967 where it was renamed Starburst. 

Since then more varieties were introduced in the market. Starburst Strawberry Fruit Chews came out followed by Starburst Tropical Fruit Chews then California Fruit Chews in 1989. In 1995, two varieties were launched together: Starburst Jellybeans and Starburst Candy Canes.

The company’s 60s candy became popular and their slogan has also varied over time. Since 2014, the company stick to their catchy slogan: “Unexplainably Juicy”

Starburst keeps on releasing new flavors and shapes. While they keep on introducing new flavors, pink and red flavors are still most people’s favorite. Also, their edible wrappers are catching the consumers attention.

Melissa is a food enthusiast and one of the founders of Kitchen Study - a food blog about the vegan lifestyle, meal delivery services and cooking guides. She writes about delicious vegan dishes from all over the world. From quick and easy weekday lunches to perfect Sunday dinner recipes, we have it all covered!