Core Ingredients of YumEarth Licorice
To understand what are the ingredients in YumEarth licorice, one must look at the foundation of the product. The brand's commitment to creating a more allergy-friendly treat is reflected in its use of organic and plant-based components. The following is a breakdown of the typical core ingredients found across different flavors:
- Organic Sweeteners: The primary sweeteners are organic cane sugar and organic rice syrup, rather than high-fructose corn syrup, which is common in many candies.
- Flour and Starch: Organic rice flour and organic corn starch are often used to provide the candy's structure and texture, ensuring it remains gluten-free.
- Fats: Organic sunflower oil and sometimes organic palm oil are included. These are vegan alternatives to traditional fats and contribute to the licorice's soft, chewy consistency. It is worth noting that some palm oil processing can contribute small amounts of trans fats.
- Natural Flavors: The licorice relies on natural flavors for its taste profile, which are often derived from organic fruit juice concentrates.
- Emulsifiers and Color: Sodium citrates and citric acid act as emulsifiers and flavor enhancers. The color comes from organic fruit and vegetable concentrates, such as carrot, apple, and blackcurrant, completely avoiding artificial dyes.
- Finishing Agent: Organic carnauba wax is used to give the licorice its shiny finish.
Flavor-Specific Ingredient Variations
While the base ingredients are consistent, different YumEarth licorice flavors have unique additions to achieve their distinct taste and color. Examples include:
- Organic Black Licorice: This traditional flavor uses organic licorice extract and organic cane sugar molasses to achieve its deep, classic taste.
- Organic Strawberry Licorice: The vibrant strawberry flavor comes from organic strawberry juice concentrate, with colors derived from organic fruit and vegetable concentrates.
- Organic Pomegranate Licorice: This fruity option includes organic pomegranate and cherry juice concentrates for its unique taste.
Nutritional Profile and Dietary Considerations
In the context of a nutrition diet, YumEarth licorice offers some appealing attributes, but it's important to be mindful of its sugar content. One serving of YumEarth organic licorice contains around 140 calories and is significantly high in sugar.
- Certifications: YumEarth licorice is USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan, and Certified Gluten-Free.
- Allergen Safety: The product is created to be free from many common allergens, including dairy, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and wheat.
- Sugar Content: Although the sugar is organic, it is still added sugar. A serving can be over 50% sugar by weight, so moderation is key.
Ingredient Concerns and Transparency
While YumEarth strives for transparency, some historical concerns have been noted, particularly regarding the use of rice-based ingredients and a Proposition 65 warning.
- Proposition 65 Warning: Some YumEarth products containing rice-based ingredients, like organic rice syrup and rice flour, have historically carried a Proposition 65 warning in California due to potential low levels of arsenic. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be present in rice. Consumers should be aware and check for current labeling on packaging.
- Processing: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has classified the processing of this product as having moderate concerns, partly due to the refining of organic oils.
Comparison: YumEarth Licorice vs. Conventional Licorice
| Feature | YumEarth Licorice | Conventional Licorice |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Organic cane sugar, organic rice syrup | High-fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, refined sugar |
| Coloring | Organic fruit and vegetable juice concentrates | Artificial food dyes (e.g., Red 40, Blue 1) |
| Allergens | Free from top 9 common allergens | May contain wheat (gluten), soy, or other common allergens |
| Artificial Flavors | Natural flavors only | Often uses artificial flavors |
| Certification | USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free | No organic, Non-GMO, or vegan certifications typical |
Conclusion
Understanding what are the ingredients in YumEarth licorice highlights the brand's efforts to create a product aligned with modern dietary preferences, such as organic, gluten-free, and vegan options. By utilizing organic rice syrup, cane sugar, and natural fruit and vegetable concentrates, it provides a simpler alternative to conventional licorice loaded with artificial additives. However, the product is still a candy with a high sugar content, and potential concerns regarding ingredients like rice-based components warrant attention, especially in locations with specific labeling requirements. Ultimately, for a nutrition diet, YumEarth licorice can be a more conscious choice for a treat, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar profile.
For more information on dietary choices and product ingredients, you can visit the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores.
