What are the ingredients in Haribo Starmix?

December 27, 2025 •

2 min read

Haribo Starmix was first introduced in the UK in 1995, and since then, it has become a global phenomenon with over 100 million bags sold annually. The contents of this iconic mixed bag of gummies vary slightly depending on the country of sale, which affects the specific list of ingredients and nutritional information. A closer look reveals the common elements that give these sweets their signature taste and texture.

Quick Summary

The primary components of Haribo Starmix are glucose syrup, sugar, dextrose, gelatin, and citric acid, alongside natural and artificial flavorings and various fruit and plant concentrates for color. The precise recipe differs by region, with US versions containing artificial dyes and UK/EU versions relying on more natural colorings. Gelatin makes the candy unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.

Key Points

Core Components: The primary ingredients are glucose syrup, sugar, dextrose, gelatin, and citric acid, which are responsible for the sweetness and chewy texture.
Regional Differences: The Haribo Starmix formula varies significantly between countries, especially regarding coloring agents.
Natural vs. Artificial Colors: UK and European versions use natural fruit and plant concentrates for coloring, while the US version relies on artificial food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5.
Contains Gelatin: Haribo Starmix is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets because it contains animal-derived gelatin.
Allergen Information: The US version carries a warning that it may contain wheat and traces of milk, a crucial detail for those with specific allergies.
Glazing Agents: Beeswax and carnauba wax give the gummies their signature shiny finish and prevent sticking.
Added Flavor: Some versions, like in the UK, include fruit juice from concentrate for enhanced flavor.

Core Ingredients of Haribo Starmix

Haribo Starmix is a collection of assorted fruit and cola-flavored gummies, including iconic shapes like Goldbears, Rings, Fried Eggs, Heart Throbs, and Cola Bottles. The foundational ingredients provide the candy's structure, sweetness, and chewiness.

Key ingredients include:

Glucose Syrup and Sugar: Main sweeteners and texture contributors.
Gelatin: An animal-derived gelling agent providing the chewy texture, making it non-vegetarian/vegan.
Dextrose: A simple sugar adding sweetness and structure.
Acid: Citric Acid: Provides tang, balances sweetness, and acts as a preservative.
Flavoring: Natural and artificial flavorings create distinct tastes.
Glazing Agents: Beeswax and Carnauba Wax provide a shiny finish and prevent sticking.

Regional Variations in Coloring

Coloring agents are a key difference in Haribo Starmix recipes globally.

European (e.g., UK/GB) Version Ingredients: Uses fruit and plant concentrates from sources like apple, bilberry, carrot, and spirulina, avoiding artificial colors. Includes caramelised sugar syrup for color and flavor. Some UK recipes list fruit juice from concentrate for added flavor.

US Version Ingredients: Contains artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Red 40, and Blue 1. Employs a mix of natural and artificial flavors. May include sunflower oil.

Comparison of Regional Haribo Starmix Ingredients

Here is a comparison highlighting the differences between US and UK versions:


Ingredient Category	UK/GB Version	US Version
Coloring Agents	Fruit and Plant Concentrates (e.g., safflower, spirulina)	Artificial Colors (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1)
Gelatin Source	Often unspecified	Likely pork-based
Additional Flavor	Includes fruit juice from concentrate	Emphasizes 'natural and artificial'
Labeling	Lists specific fruit and plant sources	Lists specific artificial colors and flavors
Suitability	Not vegetarian due to gelatin	Not vegetarian due to gelatin

Understanding Additives

Beyond core ingredients, other additives play important roles:

Acidity Regulators

Citric acid adds sourness, acts as a preservative, and enhances flavor.

Glazing Agents

Beeswax and Carnauba Wax provide shine and prevent sticking, making the candy non-vegan.

Concentrates and Extracts

Fruit and Plant Concentrates are primary colorants in many regions. Elderberry extract is used for color and flavor.

Potential Allergens and Dietary Concerns

The US version may contain wheat and traces of milk. Glucose syrup in the US product is from wheat or corn and generally gluten-free, but those with extreme sensitivity should check labels. Gelatin makes Starmix unsuitable for vegetarian, vegan, halal, or kosher diets. For more details, consult the official Haribo website.

Conclusion: A Global Candy with Local Differences

The ingredients in Haribo Starmix vary depending on the country of purchase. Core ingredients like sweeteners and gelatin provide consistency, while regional differences, particularly in coloring agents (natural concentrates in Europe vs. artificial dyes in the US), reflect varying food regulations and consumer preferences. These variations contribute to the global, yet regionally nuanced, appeal of Haribo Starmix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Haribo Starmix contains gelatin, which is an animal-derived product. This makes the candy unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Yes, the ingredients differ, most notably in the coloring agents. UK versions use fruit and plant concentrates for color, whereas US versions use artificial food dyes like Yellow 5 and Red 40.

While the US version lists glucose syrup derived from wheat or corn, it is typically highly processed and generally considered gluten-free. However, for those with severe sensitivity, it's important to note the label warning that it may contain wheat.

The glossy finish on Haribo Starmix gummies is due to glazing agents, primarily beeswax and carnauba wax, which are food-safe coatings that also prevent the candies from sticking together.

Citric acid serves multiple purposes: it adds a sour, tangy flavor to balance the sweetness, acts as a natural preservative, and enhances the overall flavor profile of the fruit-flavored candies.

Ingredients vary by country due to differing food regulations and regional consumer preferences. For example, some regions have tighter restrictions on artificial colors, leading companies like Haribo to use natural alternatives.

No, because the product contains gelatin, which is derived from animals, it is not suitable for kosher or halal diets unless explicitly certified with a specific type of gelatin.