What is Glycyrrhizin?
Glycyrrhizin is a triterpene glycoside compound extracted from the root of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is a potent, natural sweetener that is 30 to 50 times sweeter than sucrose, or table sugar. The compound's sweetness has a slower onset and lasts longer than sugar, giving licorice its characteristic lingering flavor. While licorice root has been used medicinally for centuries in various cultures, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, the concentration of glycyrrhizin in different licorice products can vary significantly. For this reason, some products are processed to remove the compound, resulting in deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).
Candies with Glycyrrhizin: The Breakdown
For licorice lovers, the presence of glycyrrhizin is what defines the unique taste. However, not all licorice-flavored products actually contain the root extract. In the United States, for instance, some red licorice candies use anise oil for a similar taste profile, but anise oil does not contain glycyrrhizin. The most common carriers of glycyrrhizin are traditional black licorice and salty licorice from Nordic countries.
Common Candy Types
- Black Licorice Twists and Ropes: Classic black licorice candies, such as those from brands like Panda and Gustaf's, are made with authentic licorice root extract.
- Salty Licorice (Salmiakki): A popular variety in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, salty licorice contains ammonium chloride in addition to licorice root, intensifying its flavor.
- Licorice Allsorts: These mixed confectionery assortments, popular in the UK and elsewhere, often contain layers of genuine black licorice.
- Other Licorice-Flavored Confections: This can include licorice-flavored caramels, pastilles, and wheels, particularly those from European makers.
Products to Check
When in doubt, always read the ingredients list. The presence of 'licorice extract,' 'licorice root,' or 'ammonium glycyrrhizin' indicates the candy contains glycyrrhizin. Some companies explicitly state the presence of the compound, while others may list only the root extract. Additionally, many candies labeled 'licorice-flavored' are produced with alternative oils and sweeteners, especially many red licorice varieties.
Potential Health Implications of Glycyrrhizin
Excessive consumption of glycyrrhizin has been linked to a number of adverse health effects. These side effects are primarily due to the compound's mineralocorticoid-like effects, which can disrupt the body's electrolyte balance.
Health Risks from Overconsumption
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Glycyrrhizin can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium, leading to elevated blood pressure. This is a particular concern for individuals with pre-existing heart or kidney conditions.
- Lowered Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia): The body's loss of potassium can affect nerve and muscle function, potentially causing irregular heart rhythms.
- Edema: Water and sodium retention can lead to swelling, especially in the ankles and feet.
- Interactions with Medications: Glycyrrhizin can interact with certain prescription drugs, such as corticosteroids and diuretics, altering their effectiveness.
Safe Consumption Guidelines
While occasional consumption is generally not a concern for healthy adults, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings regarding excessive intake. Experts advise limiting intake to below 100 mg of glycyrrhizin per day, which equates to roughly 57 grams of average black licorice. For those with heart, kidney, or high blood pressure issues, even small amounts should be approached with caution. You can find more information from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health here: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root.
Comparison of Licorice Candies and Glycyrrhizin
| Candy Type | Glycyrrhizin Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Black Licorice | Contains Glycyrrhizin | Flavor comes from genuine licorice root extract. |
| Salty Licorice (Salmiakki) | Contains Glycyrrhizin | Uses ammonium chloride for a salty, tangy taste. |
| Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) | Glycyrrhizin Removed | Processed to remove the compound, often used in lozenges. |
| Most Red Licorice | Does Not Contain Glycyrrhizin | Typically flavored with anise oil, not licorice root. |
| Chocolate Covered Licorice | Check Ingredients | Depends on the licorice used; black varieties contain it. |
How to Safely Enjoy Licorice-Flavored Treats
For those who love the distinctive taste of licorice but are concerned about glycyrrhizin, several alternatives and strategies are available. First, look for candies that are specifically labeled as 'deglycyrrhizinated' or check the ingredients for alternatives like anise oil. For those enjoying traditional black licorice, moderation is key. A single serving of black licorice candy is unlikely to cause issues for most healthy individuals. Pay attention to your body's signals, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, and consult a healthcare professional about potential risks. Staying informed and mindful allows you to enjoy the unique flavor of licorice without overindulging.
Conclusion
Glycyrrhizin, the compound that gives licorice its signature flavor, is found in traditional black licorice and its regional variations, like salty licorice. While generally safe in small amounts, excessive consumption can lead to serious health issues, particularly for those with heart or kidney conditions. For this reason, it is important to know which candies contain glycyrrhizin and to check labels carefully. For most people, enjoying licorice in moderation is a safe way to appreciate its flavor. For those with health concerns, products with deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) or those flavored with anise oil offer a safer alternative.
