The Simple Answer: Yes, Most Licorice Contains Sugar
In short, the vast majority of licorice candies on the market, including both black and red varieties, contain added sugar. While the natural root extract used to flavor traditional black licorice is itself incredibly sweet—up to 50 times sweeter than cane sugar—manufacturers still add a significant amount of sugar and other sweeteners like corn syrup to the recipe. The sugar serves multiple purposes: it enhances flavor, helps bind the ingredients together to create the candy's signature chewy texture, and acts as a preservative.
A Deeper Look into Licorice Sweeteners
Understanding the sweetening agents in licorice candy requires a closer look at the different types. Traditional black licorice gets its distinctive flavor from Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, which contains the compound glycyrrhizin. However, the confectionery process almost always involves the addition of cane sugar, molasses, or corn syrup. The final product is a complex flavor profile that is both naturally and artificially sweetened. Red licorice, by contrast, is not licorice at all in the traditional sense. It gets its vibrant color and fruity flavors (often strawberry, cherry, or raspberry) from artificial colorants and flavorings, with its sweetness coming predominantly from sugar and corn syrup. Some varieties, especially those in the UK, might still use a small amount of licorice extract or molasses for a rounded flavor.
The Rise of Sugar-Free Options
For those looking to reduce their sugar intake, sugar-free licorice options are widely available. These candies replace traditional sugars with alternative sweeteners.
Common sugar substitutes in licorice include:
- Maltitol: A sugar alcohol that is lower in calories than sugar and is often used in sugar-free candies. Excessive consumption can have a laxative effect.
- Steviol Glycosides (Stevia): A natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is significantly sweeter than sugar and is a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
- Erythritol: Another sugar alcohol that is used as a sugar substitute.
- Xylitol: A naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in many fruits and vegetables.
It is important to note that even these sugar-free alternatives can cause gastrointestinal issues if consumed in excess. Always check the ingredient list to determine which type of sweetener is used.
Black Licorice vs. Red Licorice: A Sweetness Comparison
The differences between black and red licorice are not just cosmetic; they represent fundamentally different candy recipes. While both contain sugar, their primary flavoring compounds set them apart in taste, texture, and origin.
| Feature | Black Licorice (Traditional) | Red Licorice (Fruity) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Flavoring | Licorice root extract, sometimes with anise oil | Fruit flavorings (strawberry, cherry, etc.) |
| Source | Glycyrrhiza glabra plant extract | No licorice root extract; based on candy formula |
| Sweetness | Combination of natural glycyrrhizin and added sugar/syrup | Sugar and corn syrup dominate |
| Texture | Often firmer, more dense due to flour binder | Softer, gummier consistency |
| Key Ingredient | Licorice extract, sugar, binder, molasses | Wheat flour, sugar, corn syrup, fruit flavorings |
The Licorice-Making Process and the Role of Sugar
Regardless of the flavor, the basic process of making extruded licorice candy is similar, and sugar plays a critical role. The process involves mixing and cooking ingredients to form a thick, dough-like paste. The paste is then pushed through an extruder to form the familiar rope or twist shape. Sugar, along with other ingredients like wheat flour and corn syrup, is essential for creating the texture and preventing crystallization during cooling.
The traditional method involves creating a concentrated extract from boiled licorice roots. This potent, sweet liquid is then mixed with other components. For most commercial candies today, this process is adapted to produce large volumes efficiently. Even when a licorice candy is flavored primarily with anise oil instead of root extract, sugar is still a primary ingredient for sweetness and texture.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
Is there sugar in licorice candy? Yes, there is in almost all commercial varieties, whether it's the traditional black licorice flavored with root extract or the fruity red versions. The sweetness profile of traditional licorice is a blend of the naturally sweet glycyrrhizin compound and added sugars, while red licorice is entirely a confectionery, sweetened with sugar and flavored with fruit essences. For those seeking a sugar-free alternative, the market offers several options using alternative sweeteners, but these should also be consumed in moderation due to potential side effects. Consumers should always read the ingredient label to know exactly what they are eating. For a deeper dive into the health implications of licorice, particularly the compound glycyrrhizin in large quantities, consider checking out this article on Healthline: Will Too Much Black Licorice Kill You?.
