Separating the Brands: Starburst vs. Twizzlers
The most important fact to clarify is that the product "Starburst Twizzlers" does not exist. Starburst and Twizzlers are two entirely different and unrelated candy brands, owned by separate companies. Starburst is a fruit-flavored, chewy taffy manufactured by The Wrigley Company, a subsidiary of Mars, Incorporated. On the other hand, Twizzlers is a licorice-style, chewy candy produced by Y&S Candies, a division of The Hershey Company. The confusion likely stems from a shared market for chewy, fruit-flavored candy and the similarity in their long, stick-like variations, such as Starburst Swirlers and Twizzlers Twists.
The Ingredients of Starburst Original Fruit Chews
Starburst is known for its distinctively juicy and fruity flavor, a result of its specific ingredient list. The core components of the original fruit chews create their characteristic soft, chewy texture.
- Sweeteners: The primary sweeteners are corn syrup and sugar. Apple juice from concentrate is also included to enhance the fruity taste.
- Fats and Oils: Hydrogenated palm kernel oil is a key ingredient, contributing to the candy's unique texture and consistency.
- Thickening Agents: Tapioca dextrin and modified corn starch work with gelatin to give Starburst its signature taffy-like chewiness.
- Flavor and Acidity: Citric acid provides the tangy, sour kick that complements the sweet fruit flavors.
- Flavoring and Coloring: Natural and artificial flavors are used, along with various food colorings like Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1, to create the vibrant appearance and distinct taste profiles of each square.
The Ingredients of Twizzlers Strawberry Twists
Twizzlers, while also a chewy, fruity candy, has a very different formulation that results in its rope-like texture and slightly less intense flavor profile compared to Starburst. The ingredients highlight its licorice heritage, even in fruit flavors.
- Sweeteners: Corn syrup and sugar are the main sweetening agents, similar to Starburst.
- Grains: Enriched wheat flour is a foundational ingredient, which gives Twizzlers its characteristic firm, bendable, and slightly doughy texture. It also makes Twizzlers a non-gluten-free product.
- Fats: Palm oil is included, though at different concentrations and for different purposes than in Starburst.
- Flavoring and Acidity: Cornstarch, artificial flavors, and citric acid contribute to the taste.
- Other Additives: Lecithin (from soy) acts as an emulsifier, while mineral oil and artificial coloring (like Red 40 for the popular strawberry flavor) are also present.
A Tale of Two Candies: A Comparison Table
| Feature | Starburst Original Chews | Twizzlers Strawberry Twists |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | The Wrigley Company (Mars, Incorporated) | Y&S Candies (The Hershey Company) |
| Texture | Soft, juicy, and chewy taffy | Firmer, chewier, and licorice-like rope |
| Primary Thickening Agent | Gelatin, Tapioca Dextrin, Modified Corn Starch | Enriched Wheat Flour |
| Allergen Warning | Gelatin (not vegetarian) | Wheat (gluten) and Soy |
| Key Flavor Profile | Intense, unexplainably juicy fruit burst | Mild, less pronounced strawberry fruit flavor |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Not suitable for vegans (contains gelatin) | Some varieties may be vegan (depends on formulation) |
Beyond the Ingredients: Why the Confusion Exists
The market for chewy, fruit-flavored candy is extensive, and brand extensions can create consumer mix-ups. Starburst has produced chewy candy sticks under the name "Starburst Swirlers," which might be mistaken for a Twizzlers-like product. Similarly, Twizzlers offers a wide variety of flavors and product shapes beyond the classic twist, further blurring the lines in the minds of casual consumers. Ultimately, the two brands maintain completely separate identities, formulas, and corporate ties. Knowing the distinct ingredients not only resolves the "Starburst Twizzlers" myth but also provides valuable insight for those with dietary restrictions, like a gluten or gelatin sensitivity.
Conclusion: The Final Word on "Starburst Twizzlers"
The phrase "Starburst Twizzlers" is a colloquial misnomer for two separate candies. Starburst is a juicy, gelatin-based taffy from Mars, while Twizzlers is a wheat-flour-based, licorice-style candy from Hershey's. Their distinct ingredient profiles account for their vastly different textures, tastes, and allergen information. A deeper look at the manufacturing and history of each brand solidifies their separate places in the confectionery world. If you're looking for the famously juicy flavor, reach for Starburst. For a satisfying, slightly firmer chew in a rope shape, Twizzlers is the way to go. For more information on candy ingredients, check out the EWG's Food Scores.
Starburst vs. Twizzlers: Quick Facts
- Brand Separation: Starburst is made by The Wrigley Company (Mars, Inc.), while Twizzlers is produced by Y&S Candies (The Hershey Company).
- Different Ingredients: Starburst includes gelatin for its chewiness, while Twizzlers relies on wheat flour for its firmer, licorice-like texture.
- Common Misconception: The name "Starburst Twizzlers" is not a real product but a common confusion due to brand extensions and similar product shapes.
- Dietary Differences: Starburst contains gelatin and is not vegan, whereas Twizzlers contains wheat and is not gluten-free.
- Flavor Distinction: Starburst is known for its intense, concentrated fruit flavor, while Twizzlers has a more subtle, less juicy taste.
- Chew Factor: The addition of gelatin in Starburst creates a soft, chewy taffy, distinctly different from the firmer, ropy consistency of a Twizzler.
- Production History: Twizzlers has roots dating back to the 19th century, while Starburst originated in the 20th century.
FAQs
Q: What are the ingredients in Starburst Twizzlers? A: "Starburst Twizzlers" are not a single product. Starburst is a taffy candy with ingredients like corn syrup, sugar, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, and gelatin, while Twizzlers is a licorice-style candy with wheat flour, corn syrup, and palm oil.
Q: Are Starburst and Twizzlers made by the same company? A: No, Starburst is made by Mars, Incorporated, through its subsidiary The Wrigley Company, and Twizzlers is made by The Hershey Company.
Q: Do Starburst and Twizzlers taste the same? A: No, they have very different flavor profiles and textures due to their different ingredients. Starburst has an intense, juicy flavor, while Twizzlers has a milder fruit flavor and a firmer chew.
Q: Is there a Starburst version of a Twizzler? A: Yes, Starburst has created products that resemble Twizzlers, such as Starburst Swirlers Chewy Sticks, which combine two fruit flavors in a twist shape.
Q: Are Twizzlers gluten-free? A: No, most Twizzlers products are not gluten-free as they are made with enriched wheat flour. Consumers with gluten sensitivities should always check product labels.
Q: Can vegans eat Starburst? A: No, the original Starburst fruit chews are not suitable for vegans because they contain gelatin, a common ingredient derived from animal products.
Q: Why do some people think Starburst and Twizzlers are the same? A: The confusion likely arises from both being popular chewy, fruit-flavored candies that have released products in similar stick or twist shapes, leading some consumers to mistakenly merge the brand names.
Q: Are there any discontinued Starburst twists? A: Yes, fans on social media have reminisced about a discontinued product called "Starburst Fruit Twists," which had a firmer consistency than Starburst chews.
Q: Are Twizzlers considered a healthier candy than Starburst? A: Neither is a health food, but Twizzlers are often noted as a low-fat snack, while Starburst Chews are often highlighted for their high sugar content. Consumers should check specific product nutrition labels for details.
Q: Do Twizzlers come in fruit flavors other than strawberry? A: Yes, while strawberry is the most popular, Twizzlers also come in cherry, chocolate, and a variety of other fruit-flavored editions.
Q: Where can I find a full list of ingredients for each candy? A: You can find detailed ingredient information on the respective brand websites (Hershey's and Mars/Wrigley's), or through resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
