Official Nutrition Information for Black Licorice Twists
Twizzlers black licorice twists, according to nutrition data provided by Hershey's SmartLabel and retailers like Stop & Shop, contain a specific amount of sugar per serving. A single serving is typically defined as 3 pieces, which weighs about 34 grams. For this 3-piece serving, the total sugar content is 14 grams. It is important to note that all of these are added sugars, not naturally occurring ones.
Key Ingredients Contributing to Sugar
The primary sources of sugar in Twizzlers black licorice are corn syrup and sugar. The ingredient list shows these as the first and third items, respectively, indicating they are the most prominent ingredients by weight. The use of corn syrup not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the chewy texture of the candy. While licorice extract is present, it is not a major source of sweetness; its primary role is to provide the distinctive black licorice flavor.
Comparing Sugar Content: Twists vs. Nibs
While the classic twists are the most common form, Twizzlers also come in smaller 'Nibs.' A comparison of their sugar content per serving reveals slight differences, primarily due to serving size variations.
| Feature | Twizzlers Black Licorice Twists | Twizzlers Black Licorice Nibs |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 3 pieces (34g) | 22 pieces (31g) |
| Total Sugars | 14g | 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26g | 24g |
| Calories | 120 | 110 |
As the table shows, the sugar content is identical for the standard serving size of both the twists and Nibs. The minor difference in carbohydrate count is a result of the slightly different serving weights. This demonstrates that regardless of shape, the formulation for Twizzlers black licorice delivers a consistent amount of sugar per gram.
How Much is 14 Grams of Sugar?
To put 14 grams of sugar into perspective, it is a considerable amount for a single snack. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that most adult women consume no more than 25 grams (100 calories) of added sugar per day, and most men no more than 36 grams (150 calories). A single serving of black licorice twists would therefore account for over half of a woman's daily added sugar limit and over one-third of a man's. It is a significant contribution towards daily sugar intake.
The Lack of Nutrients
Like most candies, Twizzlers black licorice offers little nutritional value beyond its sugar and carbohydrate content. The nutritional panel confirms it has 0 grams of dietary fiber, less than 1 gram of protein, and negligible amounts of vitamins or minerals. It is essentially a source of 'empty calories.' This means that while it provides energy, it does not supply the body with essential nutrients to support overall health.
Potential Health Considerations
While enjoying candy in moderation is typically harmless, it's important to be mindful of the high sugar intake. Excessive consumption of black licorice, and added sugars in general, can contribute to several health concerns. The natural licorice root extract (glycyrrhizin) found in black licorice has specific health implications, particularly for individuals over 40 or those with pre-existing health conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. The FDA warns that consuming two ounces or more of black licorice per day for at least two weeks could lead to health issues. Therefore, enjoying this treat should be done with mindful consideration of both its sugar content and the effects of the licorice extract itself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a standard 3-piece serving of Twizzlers black licorice twists contains 14 grams of sugar, all of which are added sugars. This makes it a high-sugar snack that provides little nutritional benefit. While enjoyable in moderation, the candy’s contribution to daily added sugar limits is significant. For those monitoring sugar intake, understanding this amount is crucial for making informed dietary choices. For individuals with certain health conditions, particularly those affected by blood pressure, awareness of the added licorice root extract is also important.
Note: For detailed product information, consumers can always refer to the official Hersheyland website or the SmartLabel platform for the most up-to-date nutrition facts.
