Tag: Black licorice

According to the American Licorice Company, the makers of Red Vines, their classic red licorice twists contain the artificial color Red 40. This reveals a critical distinction: authentic black liquorice is different from red 'liquorice,' and the answer to whether liquorice has Red 40 depends entirely on the type you are eating.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), excessive consumption of black licorice can cause dangerous health issues, especially in adults over 40. The key to understanding if licorice is harmful to your body lies in its main active compound and the amount consumed, not just the product type.

According to a 2023 Harris Poll and Instacart survey, 45% of Americans dislike black licorice, making it one of the most polarizing foods in the United States. This strong aversion, or deep appreciation, stems from a complex mix of genetics, cultural norms, and personal experiences that shape our sensory world.

Did you know that the key sweetening compound in liquorice, glycyrrhizin, is up to 50 times sweeter than sugar? This powerful flavour compound is just one part of the story, prompting the question: what exactly is liquorice made from?

Historically used for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt and traditional Chinese medicine, licorice root is a distinct natural herb, while the item we know as black licorice is a confectionery product that may or may not contain it. This is one of the most common points of confusion for consumers.

The FDA has previously issued consumer warnings regarding the dangers of excessive licorice intake. So, can you get sick from licorice? While occasional enjoyment is fine, overconsumption can lead to significant health problems, primarily linked to the compound glycyrrhizin.

According to the FDA, eating just two ounces (57 grams) of black licorice daily for at least two weeks could cause an irregular heart rhythm in people over 40. This surprising fact reveals the potential health risks hidden in this seemingly harmless sweet, prompting a closer look at what constitutes a safe amount for consumption.

Did you know that the distinct, polarizing taste of black liquorice comes primarily from the root of the *Glycyrrhiza glabra* plant, which contains a compound up to 50 times sweeter than sugar? Unpacking what they put in black liquorice reveals a fascinating difference between traditionally-made confections and modern, mass-produced versions.

According to the World Health Organization, reducing free sugar intake to less than 10% of total energy intake is recommended for a healthy diet. When it comes to sweets like licorice, knowing the precise amount of sugar is key for managing your consumption. So, how much sugar is in one stick of licorice?

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.