What are Licorice Allsorts?
Licorice Allsorts are a popular type of assorted confectionery known for their varied shapes, colours, and textures. The mixture typically includes pieces of coconut, jelly, and layered cubes, with some pieces containing actual licorice extract. The primary issue is that they are high in sugar and calories, and the black-coloured pieces contain real licorice, which includes the compound glycyrrhizin. While other confectionery pieces might not contain this compound, the product as a whole is classified as a treat rather than a health food.
The Key Health Risk: Glycyrrhizin
Glycyrrhizin is the active compound found in the root of the licorice plant. It is significantly sweeter than sugar and has a medicinal history, but excessive consumption is the cause of concern. When consumed in high amounts, glycyrrhizin can affect the body's electrolyte balance by influencing sodium and potassium levels. This can lead to a condition known as 'pseudo-hyperaldosteronism', mimicking the effects of the hormone aldosterone.
Potential Health Effects of Too Much Glycyrrhizin
For individuals with pre-existing conditions, particularly heart or kidney issues, or those over 40, the risk of serious health problems is higher.
Excessive glycyrrhizin intake can lead to a number of adverse health effects, including:
- Raised blood pressure (hypertension)
- Fluid retention (oedema)
- Lowered potassium levels (hypokalaemia)
- Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Congestive heart failure
- Muscle weakness
NHS Perspective and Advice
The NHS, along with related organisations like the British Heart Foundation, offers clear guidance on licorice consumption. They explicitly state that people over 40, or those with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, should be especially cautious. The recommended threshold for potential adverse effects is often cited as eating around 57g of black licorice daily for two weeks or more. Given that Licorice Allsorts contain real licorice pieces, this advice applies. Crucially, the effects are usually reversible once consumption stops, but if symptoms like palpitations or muscle weakness occur, medical advice should be sought immediately.
Licorice Allsorts vs. Other Sweets: A Comparison
To understand the context of Licorice Allsorts, it's useful to compare them with other confectionery items. The table below shows a typical nutritional breakdown per 100g.
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Licorice Allsorts | Gummy Sweets (e.g., Maynards Bassetts Wine Gums) | Milk Chocolate (e.g., Cadbury Dairy Milk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 1612 kJ (382 kcal) | ~1430 kJ (340 kcal) | ~2240 kJ (535 kcal) |
| Fat | 5.92 g | <0.5 g | 30 g |
| of which Saturates | 4.5 g | <0.5 g | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 78.2 g | ~79 g | 59 g |
| of which Sugars | 66.4 g | ~64 g | 58 g |
| Protein | 2.7 g | ~6 g | 8 g |
| Salt | 0.04 g | <0.01 g | 0.25 g |
| Key Ingredient | Licorice Extract, Sugar | Sugar, Gelatine | Sugar, Milk, Cocoa |
This table illustrates that while Licorice Allsorts have a similar sugar content to other popular sweets, they contain the specific compound, glycyrrhizin, which carries additional health warnings. Unlike other sweets, the risk from Allsorts isn't just sugar and calories but also the mineralocorticoid-like effect of the licorice extract.
Conclusion: Moderation is Key, Especially for At-Risk Groups
The question of whether Licorice Allsorts are good for you, from an NHS perspective, has a clear answer: no, they are a discretionary food item that should be consumed sparingly. For the majority of healthy adults, an occasional indulgence is unlikely to pose a significant risk. However, the presence of glycyrrhizin means that certain groups—particularly those over 40 or with pre-existing heart or blood pressure conditions—must exercise significant caution. The NHS advises that excessive and consistent intake can lead to serious health complications like hypertension and arrhythmia. Therefore, it is wise to treat Licorice Allsorts as an infrequent treat and be mindful of total licorice consumption, including other products like licorice tea or supplements. For those with health concerns, consulting a GP or pharmacist is always recommended.
Visit the British Heart Foundation for more information on diet and heart health.
