The Core Difference: Twizzlers vs. Traditional Licorice
To understand whether Twizzlers are truly licorice, one must first distinguish between the traditional black variety and the popular red versions. True licorice derives its distinctive, potent flavor from the extract of the licorice plant root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). This root extract imparts a robust, herbal taste often compared to anise or fennel. Black Twizzlers are the only variant in the company's product line that contains this licorice extract, making them the singular product that fits the traditional definition of licorice. However, the vast majority of Twizzlers sold, particularly the red strawberry twists, are made with artificial fruit flavorings and contain none of the licorice plant extract. These are more accurately termed "licorice-type candy".
The Ingredients Tell the Story
An examination of the ingredient list reveals the fundamental distinction. The ingredients for the classic strawberry Twizzlers are primarily corn syrup, wheat flour, sugar, cornstarch, artificial flavor, and artificial color (Red 40). The wheat flour and corn syrup form the basis of the chewy, taffy-like texture, while the artificial flavors provide the fruity taste. In contrast, Black Licorice Twizzlers lists licorice extract among its components. This means that when you bite into a red Twizzler, you are tasting a fruit-flavored chewy candy, not a confection flavored with true licorice root.
The Rise of Fruity 'Licorice'
The dominance of the red, fruit-flavored Twizzlers is a uniquely American phenomenon. While classic black licorice remains popular in many parts of the world, particularly in Northern European countries like the Netherlands, the fruity versions have captured the American market. The American Licorice Company's Red Vines are a similar product, and like Twizzlers, their fruity versions contain no real licorice. This market shift can be traced back to the 1970s when Twizzlers first introduced its strawberry flavor, which quickly eclipsed the original black flavor in popularity. Consumers began associating the twisted candy shape with the sweet, fruity flavor, rather than the original herbal taste, leading to the colloquial use of the term "red licorice".
A Comparison of Twizzlers and True Licorice
| Feature | Red Twizzlers (e.g., Strawberry) | Traditional Black Licorice (e.g., Black Twizzlers) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Flavoring | Artificial fruit flavor (e.g., strawberry) | Licorice root extract |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, fruity, and often tangy | Pungent, herbal, and slightly bitter |
| Texture | Softer and more waxy | Often firmer and chewier |
| Primary Market | Dominantly the United States | Popular in Europe and among licorice purists |
| Root Content | None | Contains licorice extract from the plant root |
The Evolution of the Term 'Licorice'
The term 'licorice' has evolved over time, especially in America, where it has become a descriptor for a category of candy rather than a specific flavor profile. What started as a product flavored by the licorice root has transformed into a classification for chewy, often twisted, candy ropes. This linguistic shift is why so many people mistakenly believe that all Twizzlers are a form of licorice. However, a peek at the company's own information reveals the distinction, with popular flavors simply referred to as "licorice type candy". This casual renaming has caused significant confusion among consumers, but the ingredients remain the ultimate arbiter of the truth.
Are the Ingredients Safe?
For most people, the ingredients in Twizzlers are perfectly safe. However, excessive consumption of genuine black licorice can pose health risks due to the compound glycyrrhizin, which can cause potassium levels to drop. The FDA has issued warnings about this, though the levels in Black Twizzlers are reportedly well within safety limits. Red Twizzlers, lacking this compound, do not carry the same risk, though their high sugar content is a concern for moderation. For those with gluten sensitivities, it is worth noting that Twizzlers contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Twizzlers and Licorice
Ultimately, whether a Twizzler is licorice depends on the specific flavor. The traditional black Twizzler is indeed licorice, containing genuine licorice extract. However, the beloved red strawberry, cherry, and other fruity varieties are not true licorice. They are 'licorice-type candy,' defined by their twisted, chewy format rather than their flavor profile. This widespread popularity of the non-licorice flavors in the United States has led to a common misunderstanding about the candy's true nature. So the next time you grab a bag of Twizzlers, you’ll know that unless it’s black, you’re enjoying a completely different confectionery altogether. For an authentic look at The Hershey Company's official brand details, you can visit their website.
