What are the ingredients in red twizzlers?

January 9, 2026 •

2 min read

Despite their similar appearance to red licorice, red Twizzlers are not made with real licorice root extract, which is reserved for the black variety. This confection gets its chewy consistency, sweet flavor, and bright color from a list of ingredients that includes corn syrup, enriched wheat flour, and the artificial coloring Red 40.

Quick Summary

A comprehensive look at the makeup of red Twizzlers, focusing on the primary components like corn syrup, sugar, and flour. It also details the artificial additives, including flavorings and colorants, that define its familiar profile.

Key Points

Core Ingredients: The bulk of red Twizzlers is composed of corn syrup, sugar, and enriched wheat flour, which provide the candy's structure and sweetness.
Not Real Licorice: Unlike black Twizzlers, the red, strawberry-flavored variety does not contain any licorice root extract.
Artificial Color: The candy's signature red hue is created using the synthetic food dye Red 40.
Texture Additives: Ingredients like palm oil, mineral oil, and soy lecithin are used as processing aids to achieve the desired chewy, non-sticky texture.
Ultra-Processed Food: Due to their high sugar content and synthetic ingredients, red Twizzlers are classified as an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
Preservatives and Acidity: Citric acid and potassium sorbate are added to act as preservatives and help extend the product's shelf life.

Decoding the Ingredients: What are the ingredients in red twizzlers?

Red Twizzlers are a popular strawberry-flavored candy known for their chewy texture. While often referred to as "red licorice," they do not contain actual licorice root extract, which is used in the black variety. The ingredients list reveals a combination of sweeteners, flour, and additives that contribute to the candy's taste and consistency.

The Foundational Sweeteners and Starches

The core ingredients in red Twizzlers provide sweetness and structure:

Corn Syrup: The primary sweetener and moisture retainer, essential for chewiness.
Sugar: Contributes to the sweet flavor and density.
Enriched Wheat Flour: Provides structural integrity, allowing the candy to be twisted and hold shape. It is supplemented with B vitamins and iron.
Cornstarch: Acts as a thickener and gelling agent, helping to bind ingredients for a firm yet pliable texture.

The Flavor, Color, and Additives

Several additives give red Twizzlers their specific sensory characteristics:

Artificial Flavor: Chemical compounds mimicking strawberry taste.
Artificial Color (Red 40): A synthetic food dye responsible for the bright red color.
Palm Oil: Contributes to a smooth texture and aids in processing.
Salt: Enhances overall flavor, balancing sweetness.
Citric Acid: Provides tartness and acts as a preservative.
Glycerin: Helps keep the candy soft and moist, adding slight sweetness.
Mineral Oil: A processing aid to prevent sticking during manufacturing.
Soy Lecithin: An emulsifier that helps blend ingredients for a consistent texture.
Potassium Sorbate: A preservative to inhibit mold and yeast growth.

Comparison Table: Red Twizzlers vs. Black Twizzlers


Feature	Red Twizzlers	Black Twizzlers
Flavor Profile	Artificial strawberry flavor	Licorice extract flavor
Primary Sweeteners	Corn Syrup, Sugar	Corn Syrup, Sugar, Maltitol syrup (often in sugar-free versions)
Coloring	Artificial Color (Red 40)	Caramel color (natural color)
Texture	Chewy, pliable, with a smoother feel	Chewier, with a distinct anise flavor
Key Flavoring	Artificial Flavor	Licorice Extract

Are red Twizzlers a healthy choice?

High in corn syrup and sugar, red Twizzlers offer minimal nutritional value and are considered an occasional treat. They are low in fat but high in calories and added sugar, often classified as an ultra-processed food. Moderation is key, as they lack significant vitamins, minerals, or fiber.

Conclusion

Understanding what are the ingredients in red twizzlers reveals they are primarily composed of corn syrup, sugar, and enriched wheat flour, giving them their characteristic sweetness and chew. Artificial flavor provides the strawberry taste, while Red 40 gives the color. Other additives like palm oil and lecithin refine the texture and ensure shelf life. This composition distinguishes them from traditional licorice and identifies them as a processed, sugary candy best enjoyed in moderation. For more information on food ingredients, resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) offer detailed analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, red Twizzlers do not contain real licorice root extract. Only the black licorice-flavored Twizzlers include actual licorice extract in their ingredients.

The vibrant red color of red Twizzlers is achieved through the use of an artificial food dye called Red 40.

No, red Twizzlers are not gluten-free. They contain enriched wheat flour, which is a primary ingredient for their structure and chewiness.

The main sweetener used in red Twizzlers is corn syrup, which is typically the first ingredient listed on the package.

While the main ingredients like corn syrup and sugar are plant-based, the presence of mono- and diglycerides (which can be animal-derived) and other processing details may make them unsuitable for strict vegans. It is best to check with the manufacturer for definitive vegan status.

Mineral oil is used as a processing aid during the manufacturing process. It helps to prevent the candy from sticking to the machinery.

The main difference is the flavoring and coloring. Red Twizzlers use artificial strawberry flavor and Red 40, whereas black Twizzlers contain licorice extract and a natural caramel color.

The chewy texture of red Twizzlers is primarily created by the combination of corn syrup, sugar, enriched wheat flour, and cornstarch. Glycerin also helps maintain a soft, pliable consistency.