Halloween can be a lot of fun for kids of all ages, with entertainment ranging from costumes to scary movies, and from trick-or-treating to eating tasty sweets. However, by taking a deeper look at some of the “treats” that are received, it may not be the ghosts and goblins that cause the fright that night.

Have a look at some of the ingredients on the packaging of the items you’ll be doling out or that your own children have received:

• Artificial colors and flavors – these are chemicals often based on petroleum products that can have adverse effects, such as hyperactivity, rashes, allergic reactions, fatigue, and headaches.

• Alkali – this ingredient is an acid neutralizer that is found in many chocolate products in order to lower bitterness and boost flavor. Unfortunately, most of the antioxidants found in the chocolate are destroyed by this ingredient.

• High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) – this is a fructose sweetener that is made when cornstarch is processed. Though it is inexpensive, it also involve the use of genetically modified enzymes. Moreover, it is known to increase an individual’s risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

• Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate (PGPR) – this ingredient is made from castor beans and is a binding agent (emulsifier). This is found in many chocolate products to reduce their thickness so that when they are melted, the result will be a texture with greater smoothness. However, like alkali, it reduces or eliminates the antioxidants in the product.

Many parents are choosing to give alternative treats to their kids and to the trick-or-treaters who come to the door. Some ideas include:

• Small boxes of organic raisins
• Granola bars
• Individually wrapped cookies that are trans fat-free and have low sugar.
• Pretzels
• Nicely wrapped organic fruit Gifts
• Fruit bars
• Dark chocolate