The Reigning Champion of Salt: Haupt Lakrits Svenskjävlar
While personal preference can make any candy seem too salty, the consensus among enthusiasts of extreme confectionery points to Haupt Lakrits Svenskjävlar as a frontrunner for the title of what is the most salty candy in the world? Hailing from Sweden, this artisanal licorice is celebrated and feared for its intense, powerful flavor.
Unlike standard salty licorice, Svenskjävlar, which literally translates to “Swedish Bastards,” takes the saltiness to another level. It features a smooth core of licorice and salmiak cream, which is then surrounded by a thin layer of salty licorice and heavily dusted with salmiak salt, or ammonium chloride. The manufacturer, Haupt Lakrits, is known for its small-batch production and dedication to high-quality, intensely flavored products. Reviews from those brave enough to try it describe the initial taste as a major shock to the system, with one reviewer noting their tongue felt burned for days afterward. This powerful sting is a hallmark of the candy's potency.
The Role of Ammonium Chloride (Salmiak Salt)
The key to the uniquely salty flavor of Nordic licorice is not table salt (sodium chloride) but rather salmiak salt (ammonium chloride). Ammonium chloride imparts a sharp, astringent, and distinctly salty taste that is quite different from the typical salty-sweet flavor found in many candies elsewhere in the world. The higher the concentration of ammonium chloride, the more intense the salty taste.
Historically, salmiak salt was used in pharmacy as a cough medicine and an expectorant. It is speculated that this medicinal origin led to its incorporation into confectionery in Finland and Scandinavia by the 1930s. The use of salmiak salt in these candies is a long-standing tradition that contributes to their unique and often shocking flavor profile for the uninitiated.
A Comparative Look at Other Salty Candies
While Svenskjävlar may claim the top spot for intensity, it is by no means the only player in the salty candy game. Northern Europe and the Benelux region, in particular, are home to a vibrant culture of salty licorice consumption.
Here is a comparison of some notable salty candies:
| Candy Name | Origin | Main Flavor Profile | Salt Intensity (1-10) | Noteworthy Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haupt Lakrits Svenskjävlar | Sweden | Extreme salmiak, deep licorice | 10 | Coated in extra salmiak salt; artisanal production |
| Tyrkisk Peber (Turkish Pepper) | Finland | Salty, spicy licorice with a fizzy center | 8 | A popular choice, but its spiciness balances the salt |
| Salmiakki | Finland | Distinctive, classic salmiakki flavor | 7 | The original Finnish salty licorice; available in many forms |
| Zoute Drop (Double Salted Licorice) | Netherlands | Very salty licorice; available in many shapes | 7 | The Dutch are famous for their varieties of licorice, especially the double salted |
| Lakrisal | Sweden/Norway | Salty salmiak pastille, often with a powder coating | 6 | A classic salty candy that dissolves slowly |
| Pirate Coins (Piratos) | Denmark | Shaped like coins with pirate motifs; salty flavor | 6 | A beloved traditional salty licorice with a satisfying chew |
| Salzige Heringe (Salty Herrings) | Germany | Fish-shaped licorice with a firm texture | 5 | Features a good balance of salt and licorice, produced by Katjes |
The Cultural Significance of Salty Licorice
For many in the Nordic and Dutch regions, salty licorice is more than just a candy—it's a cultural touchstone. The preference for this flavor is often acquired, and it can be a shocking experience for those not accustomed to it. The pairing of sweet and salty is not uncommon in these cuisines, where cured and preserved foods have long been staples. The unique, sometimes aggressive flavor profile of salmiakki is a testament to the adventurous palates of these cultures. It is frequently shared with outsiders as a kind of rite of passage or a jovial challenge.
The Science Behind the Salt and Sweet Craving
The combination of sweet and salty is a powerful one, and science has shown it triggers a pleasurable response in the brain. Recent research has even identified specific sugar receptors on the tongue that are activated by the presence of salt. This layering of flavors, what some chefs call “pure alchemy,” creates a complex sensory experience that keeps people coming back for more. In the case of salty licorice, the intense saltiness of the ammonium chloride is balanced by the underlying sweetness of the licorice root extract, creating a flavor that is both challenging and addictive for those who acquire a taste for it.
Conclusion
When it comes to answering what is the most salty candy in the world?, the Swedish Haupt Lakrits Svenskjävlar is the definitive choice for those seeking the ultimate salivary gland challenge. Its potent combination of high-quality ingredients and a heavy dusting of salmiak salt creates an unrivaled intensity. However, the world of salty candy is vast and diverse, with many contenders from Northern Europe offering their own unique versions of this acquired taste. From Finnish salmiakki to Dutch Zoute Drop, these candies stand as a testament to the cultural appeal of a flavor profile that is both polarizing and beloved.
The Process of Making Salty Licorice
Making this polarizing candy involves careful temperature control and a precise balance of ingredients, particularly the ammonium chloride.
- Combining Ingredients: The process starts by mixing sugar, syrups, and other components, including the critical salmiak salt.
- Boiling to Hard-Crack Stage: The mixture is heated to a high temperature, often using a candy thermometer, to reach the "hard ball" stage, where it can be pulled and shaped.
- Flavoring and Shaping: Once the base is cooked, flavorings like anise extract and molasses are added, and the candy is pulled and shaped.
- Salmiak Coating: For the most extreme versions like Svenskjävlar, an extra coating of salmiak salt is applied to the outside for maximum saltiness.
Visit a dedicated licorice retailer for more insights into the world of salty licorice.
Health Considerations of Eating Salty Candy
While a delicious indulgence for some, consuming extremely salty candy in large quantities should be done with caution. High sodium intake, regardless of the source, can have health implications.
Potential Risks Associated with High Sodium Intake:
- Increased Blood Pressure: High sodium levels can increase blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
- Fluid Retention: This can lead to bloating and swelling in the body.
- Dehydration and Thirst: High sodium can cause the body to pull water from its cells to compensate, leading to dehydration.
- Other Symptoms: Headaches, fatigue, and stomach issues can also occur with excessive intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes salty licorice different from regular licorice? Salty licorice uses ammonium chloride (salmiak salt) for its flavor, which gives it a sharp, astringent, and intensely salty taste, unlike the sweeter, milder flavor of regular licorice which uses licorice root extract.
Why do people in Nordic countries enjoy such salty candy? The taste for salty licorice is often acquired from childhood and is deeply embedded in Nordic and Dutch food culture, which also values brined and cured foods. It’s a part of their culinary heritage and can be an enjoyable cultural experience.
Is it safe to eat extremely salty candy? In moderation, yes. However, consuming large quantities of extremely salty candy can lead to health issues due to high sodium intake, such as increased blood pressure and fluid retention. It's best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Can salty licorice affect blood pressure? Yes, excessive consumption of high-sodium foods, including salty licorice, can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Individuals with blood pressure concerns should limit their intake.
Where can I buy the most salty candy in the world? Products like Haupt Lakrits Svenskjävlar can often be purchased online from specialty candy retailers or imported goods stores. They are also available in Sweden and other parts of Scandinavia.
What are other types of salty licorice I can try? Besides Svenskjävlar, other popular choices include Finnish Salmiakki, Dutch Zoute Drop, and Tyrkisk Peber, which also contains a spicy element. Each offers a different level of salt and flavor.
How can I prepare for trying extremely salty candy for the first time? Start with a very small piece and have plenty of water on hand. Don't expect a typical candy experience; the flavor is a sharp and intense shock to the system. Try tasting alongside a milder candy to better appreciate the contrasting flavors.
Is there an official limit on the amount of salmiak salt in candy? In the EU, there are general regulations on ammonium chloride, but there are no specific restrictions for its use in licorice or ice cream, allowing for regional variations in saltiness.
Why is salty licorice sometimes called 'black candy'? This nickname often comes from its dark, almost black color. Many traditional salty licorice varieties are black or very dark brown, making the name a simple descriptor.
