Is it safe to eat Twizzlers black licorice?

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

In 2020, a 54-year-old man died from excessive black licorice consumption, which brought national attention to the health risks of its active compound, glycyrrhizin. This raises a critical question for candy lovers: is it safe to eat Twizzlers black licorice, and how much is too much?

Quick Summary

This article explores the safety of consuming Twizzlers black licorice, detailing the ingredient differences, the risks of glycyrrhizin, and official health guidelines. It offers clear advice on moderation, potential drug interactions, and when certain individuals should avoid the candy entirely.

Key Points

Moderate consumption is safe: For most healthy people, eating Twizzlers black licorice in moderation poses a low risk due to its low glycyrrhizin content.
Risk increases with quantity and duration: Excessive intake of any black licorice product over time can lead to dangerous side effects, primarily affecting the heart and blood pressure.
Glycyrrhizin is the key risk factor: The compound responsible for health risks is glycyrrhizin, which can lower potassium levels and cause irregular heart rhythms and hypertension.
High-risk groups exist: People over 40, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing heart, kidney, or blood pressure issues should be especially cautious.
FDA recommends limits: The FDA suggests adults 40 and older should avoid consuming more than 2 ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks or more.
Check ingredients carefully: Some black licorice-flavored candies use anise oil and do not contain real licorice root or glycyrrhizin.
Watch for warning signs: If you experience an irregular heartbeat, swelling, or muscle weakness after consuming black licorice, seek medical attention.

Unpacking the Ingredients: Real Licorice vs. Licorice Flavor

Many candies labeled as "black licorice" don't contain significant amounts of licorice root extract, instead using anise oil for flavoring. However, Twizzlers Black Licorice Twists do contain a small amount of licorice extract. Hershey's states that the glycyrrhizin levels in their black licorice are well below U.S. FDA limits.

The Role of Glycyrrhizin

Glycyrrhizin, from licorice root, is risky in large amounts due to its effect on electrolytes. It can lower potassium, causing pseudohyperaldosteronism, leading to high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms. Potassium levels usually normalize after consumption stops.

FDA Warnings and Consumption Guidance

The FDA issued warnings in 2017 and 2020 about excessive black licorice consumption risks, prompted by serious health problems in some individuals. The FDA advises those 40 and older not to eat more than 2 ounces (57 grams) of black licorice daily for two weeks or more.

Who Should Be Cautious?

While occasional, small amounts are generally safe for most healthy adults, certain individuals should be cautious or avoid black licorice.

Individuals with heart conditions: Glycyrrhizin can worsen heart failure and irregular heartbeats.
People with high blood pressure: The compound can increase blood pressure.
Those with kidney or liver disease: These conditions can hinder processing and eliminating glycyrrhizin.
Pregnant individuals: High intake is linked to increased premature birth risk.
People on certain medications: Glycyrrhizin can interact with medications for blood pressure, diuretics, and blood thinners.

Twizzlers Black Licorice vs. Other Black Licorice

Understanding ingredient differences helps assess Twizzlers' safety compared to other black licorice candies.


Feature	Twizzlers Black Licorice	Traditional Licorice Candy	Anise-Flavored Candy (e.g., some U.S. brands)
Contains Licorice Extract	Yes (in small amounts)	Yes (can be high concentration)	No
Contains Glycyrrhizin	Yes (in low amounts)	Yes (variable, can be high)	No
Primary Flavoring	Licorice Extract + Anise Oil	Licorice Root	Anise Oil Only
Associated Health Risks	Low risk in moderation due to low glycyrrhizin.	Moderate to high risk with large, frequent consumption.	Very low risk (similar to other candy).

The Moderation Takeaway

Moderation is key to safely consuming Twizzlers black licorice. The low glycyrrhizin concentration means occasional consumption is unlikely to harm most people. However, daily, large quantities increase the risk of serious health issues, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. Total daily intake matters, including licorice from other sources. Consult a healthcare professional if you're in a high-risk group or on medication. Anise-flavored or fruit-flavored candies offer alternatives without glycyrrhizin risks.

Conclusion

For most healthy adults, Twizzlers black licorice in moderation is safe due to its low glycyrrhizin content, within FDA limits. The primary risk comes from excessive, long-term consumption of black licorice high in glycyrrhizin, potentially causing heart and electrolyte problems. Individuals over 40 or with heart disease/high blood pressure should be especially careful. Consume black licorice sparingly and be mindful of your total intake from all sources. Source for FDA warning.

What to Know Before Eating Black Licorice

Moderation is key: Keep consumption minimal and infrequent due to glycyrrhizin risks.
High-risk individuals: Those with heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney disease should avoid black licorice.
Check for glycyrrhizin: Some candies use anise oil instead of real licorice root.
FDA guidance: Adults over 40 should not exceed 2 ounces daily for over two weeks.
Consult a doctor: Discuss black licorice consumption with a doctor if you take certain medications.
Symptoms of excess: Seek medical attention if you experience irregular heart rhythms, muscle weakness, or swelling.
Pregnancy caution: Avoid excessive consumption while pregnant.

FAQs

Question: Do black Twizzlers contain real licorice root? Answer: Yes, black Twizzlers contain a small amount of licorice extract. Hershey's states glycyrrhizin levels are below FDA limits.

Question: How much Twizzlers black licorice is safe to eat? Answer: Occasional small amounts are generally safe. The FDA advises adults over 40 to avoid more than 2 ounces daily for two weeks or longer.

Question: What is glycyrrhizin and why is it harmful? Answer: Glycyrrhizin in large amounts can lower potassium, causing high blood pressure, fluid retention, and irregular heart rhythms.

Question: Can black licorice interfere with medications? Answer: Yes, it can interact with blood pressure drugs, diuretics, and blood thinners. Consult a doctor if you are on medication.

Question: What are the symptoms of consuming too much black licorice? Answer: Symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling, lethargy, and irregular heart rhythms. Severe cases can cause heart failure.

Question: What is a safe alternative to black licorice? Answer: Anise-flavored candies mimic the taste without glycyrrhizin. Red licorice is another safe alternative.

Question: How quickly can someone experience negative effects from black licorice? Answer: Effects are usually from long-term, high consumption. However, the FDA warns that 2 ounces daily for two weeks can cause problems, especially for those over 40.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, black Twizzlers contain a small amount of licorice extract derived from licorice root, along with other natural and artificial flavors. The manufacturer has stated that the glycyrrhizin levels are well below the U.S. FDA's limits.

For healthy individuals, an occasional, small amount is generally safe. However, the FDA advises adults over 40 to avoid eating more than 2 ounces (57 grams) per day for two weeks or longer to prevent irregular heart rhythms.

Glycyrrhizin is the sweetening compound found in licorice root. In large quantities, it can cause a significant drop in the body's potassium levels, leading to increased blood pressure, fluid retention, and irregular heart rhythms.

Yes, licorice can interfere with several medications, including those for high blood pressure, diuretics, and blood thinners such as warfarin. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you are taking any of these medications.

Excessive consumption can lead to symptoms like high blood pressure, swelling (edema), lethargy, and abnormal heart rhythms. In severe cases, it can cause congestive heart failure.

For those who love the flavor but want to avoid the risks, many candies are flavored with anise oil instead of real licorice. Alternatively, red licorice, which is typically flavored with strawberry or cherry, does not contain glycyrrhizin and is a safe choice.

Adverse effects are generally associated with chronic, high-volume consumption. However, the FDA has warned that eating 2 ounces daily for just two weeks could cause problems, particularly for individuals over 40.