Does Liquorice Contain a Lot of Sugar? An In-depth Look at Candy vs. Root

While pure liquorice root is naturally sweet due to a compound called glycyrrhizin (up to 50 times sweeter than sugar), most store-bought liquorice candy contains significant amounts of added sugar. This distinction is crucial for understanding the product's nutritional profile.

Quick Summary

Liquorice candy is high in added sugar, similar to other confections, but the plant's root achieves its intense sweetness from a compound called glycyrrhizin, which is not sugar.

Key Points

• Not all sweetness is sugar: The natural sweetness of liquorice root comes from glycyrrhizin, which is not a sugar and is significantly sweeter than sucrose.

• Candy contains added sugar: Manufactured liquorice candy, like other confections, relies on large quantities of added sugar for its sweetness, not glycyrrhizin.

• Excess matters for both: Overconsumption of liquorice candy leads to risks associated with high sugar intake, while excessive consumption of pure root extract can cause health problems related to glycyrrhizin, such as high blood pressure.

• Read the label: The nutritional content and ingredient list are the best way to determine if a liquorice product is high in added sugar.

• Red is not the same: Red 'licorice' is typically fruit-flavoured candy containing no actual liquorice root extract or glycyrrhizin.

The Natural Sweetness of Liquorice Root

At the heart of the confusion is the liquorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. The root of this plant is where the distinctive flavour and sweetness originate. The sweetness is not from sucrose or other common sugars but from a triterpene saponin compound called glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is an incredibly potent natural sweetener, noted to be between 30 and 170 times sweeter than sucrose. This intense sweetness means that a little goes a very long way, making pure liquorice root a source of flavour and sweetness without a high sugar load. The sweetness from glycyrrhizin is also different from sugar; it has a slower onset and tends to linger in the mouth for a longer period. For example, studies into the pure root have shown a relatively low sugar content (around 10.4g per 100g) while still being very sweet.

Components of Liquorice Root

Pure liquorice root is composed of various compounds that contribute to its flavour and medicinal properties, not just sweetness:

• Triterpene Saponins: Including glycyrrhizin, the primary sweetening agent.
• Flavonoids: These are responsible for the root's yellow colour.
• Essential Oils: Including anethole, which contributes to the aroma.
• Polysaccharides and Starch: Provide bulk and other properties.

The Added Sugar in Liquorice Candy

In stark contrast to the natural root, liquorice candy is a confectionary product with sugar as a primary ingredient. Candy makers add significant amounts of sugar, corn syrup, molasses, and other binders to create the sweet, chewy treat. The nutritional information for most liquorice candies shows a very high sugar content. For example, some black liquorice products can contain around 12 grams of sugar in a small 30-gram serving, while others have been found to contain as much as 49 grams of sugar per 100 grams. This sugar content places it in the same category as other high-sugar candies and sweets, with associated health implications if consumed in excess.

Variations in Liquorice Confectionery

• Black Liquorice: Traditionally made with liquorice root extract, but always with significant added sugar.
• Red Liquorice: Often does not contain any liquorice root extract at all. It is typically a fruit-flavoured candy coloured red and is sweetened with corn syrup and sugar, not glycyrrhizin.
• Salted Liquorice: Popular in Nordic and other European countries, this type contains ammonium chloride in addition to sugar, which gives it a salty, pungent flavour.

Liquorice Candy vs. Pure Liquorice Root: A Comparison

Feature	Pure Liquorice Root (Dried)	Liquorice Candy (e.g., Black)
Source of Sweetness	Glycyrrhizin (a natural compound)	Added sugars (sucrose, corn syrup)
Actual Sugar Content	Very low to moderate (often <15%)	High (often >40%)
Typical Use	Herbal remedies, flavouring teas, medicinal purposes	Confectionery, a snack or sweet treat
Health Considerations	Excessive glycyrrhizin can cause high blood pressure	High added sugar can lead to obesity and dental issues
Taste Profile	Earthy, complex, lingering sweetness	Instant, sweet, less nuanced flavour

Potential Health Considerations

The Risks of Added Sugars

As with any other confectionery, high consumption of liquorice candy is linked to the health risks associated with excessive sugar intake, such as weight gain, dental problems, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars, a guideline easily exceeded by regular candy consumption.

The Risks of Glycyrrhizin

It is also critical to understand that while pure liquorice root is low in sugar, excessive intake of its extract is not without risk due to the glycyrrhizin content. Glycyrrhizin can affect potassium levels and blood pressure, potentially causing dangerous side effects in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing heart or kidney conditions. A highly publicized case in 2020, involving a man's death after consuming large amounts of black liquorice candy, highlighted the risks of chronic overconsumption of the root extract, even in candy. It is important to consume all forms of liquorice in moderation. You can learn more about these risks in an article from the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Conclusion: Navigating the Sweetness of Liquorice

The answer to "Does liquorice contain a lot of sugar?" is yes and no, depending on the form. The natural root is sweet due to glycyrrhizin, not sugar. Conversely, liquorice candy is a high-sugar confection designed for a sweet tooth. Being aware of this distinction is the first step toward making informed dietary choices. Whether you are enjoying a treat or using the root for its herbal properties, understanding the source of its sweetness and the potential health impacts is key.

How to Tell If a Product Is High in Added Sugar

1. Check the Ingredients List: Look for sugar, corn syrup, molasses, or other sweeteners listed as one of the first few ingredients.
2. Examine the Nutrition Facts: The "Sugars" line on the nutrition label will indicate how many grams of total sugar are in a serving.
3. Differentiate the Product: Determine if the product is pure liquorice root (such as in a tea or herbal remedy) or a manufactured candy.
4. Taste Test: Pure root extract offers a complex, earthy, and lingering sweetness, unlike the immediate, sharp sweetness of sugar-based candy.

How to Tell If a Product Is High in Added Sugar

1. Check the Ingredients List: Look for sugar, corn syrup, molasses, or other sweeteners listed as one of the first few ingredients.
2. Examine the Nutrition Facts: The "Sugars" line on the nutrition label will indicate how many grams of total sugar are in a serving.
3. Differentiate the Product: Determine if the product is pure liquorice root (such as in a tea or herbal remedy) or a manufactured candy.
4. Taste Test: Pure root extract offers a complex, earthy, and lingering sweetness, unlike the immediate, sharp sweetness of sugar-based candy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is liquorice root sugar-free?

Liquorice root is not entirely sugar-free, but its primary sweetening agent is glycyrrhizin, not sugar. It contains some natural sugars but achieves its intense sweetness from the glycyrrhizin compound.

Why does liquorice candy have so much sugar?

Liquorice candy is a confectionary product. Manufacturers add sugar, corn syrup, and other sweeteners to achieve the desired flavour and texture, similar to other candies.

Can I use liquorice as a sugar substitute?

Liquorice extract (glycyrrhizin) is sometimes used as a natural sweetener, especially in certain foods, beverages, and supplements. It is very sweet and has a low glycemic impact, but its distinct flavour profile means it is not a direct substitute for sugar in all applications.

Is black liquorice healthier than red liquorice?

While black liquorice often contains real liquorice extract, both black and red liquorice candies are typically high in added sugar. Red liquorice often contains no real liquorice and is fruit-flavoured. The health impact largely depends on the high sugar content of both types of confectionery.

What is glycyrrhizin and why is it important?

Glycyrrhizin is the compound in liquorice root that provides its intense sweetness, being up to 50 times sweeter than sugar. It is not a carbohydrate sugar, but excessive consumption can have medicinal effects, such as increasing blood pressure.

How can I check the sugar content of liquorice products?

Always check the product's nutrition facts panel for the 'Sugars' content and the ingredients list. The ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so if sugar or corn syrup is near the top, the product is high in added sugar.

Are there sugar-free liquorice options?

Yes, some manufacturers produce sugar-free liquorice candy using artificial sweeteners or sweeteners like glycyrrhizin. However, the use of these substitutes may alter the flavour and still require checking the label for ingredients and potential side effects.