I'd say look at sports gels instead, something like this with 22g but its still expensive at ~$1 per, I haven't tried them though
maybe gogo squeez yogurt or applesauce if they don't need refrigerated, but check the expiration dates before use, and don't store in conditions where they might spoil.
Smarties(the pure sugar kind) is probably the cheapest option, 2 rolls=12g