Is twizzlers licorice?

Is Twizzlers Licorice?

When it comes to chewy, sweet, and tangy candies, Twizzlers are often the first brand that comes to mind. But the question remains: are Twizzlers licorice? The answer may surprise you.

What is Licorice?

Before we dive into the world of Twizzlers, let’s define what licorice is. Licorice is a type of root that comes from the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). The root is commonly used to make candies, medicines, and other products. Licorice root has a distinctive flavor and aroma that is often associated with a sweet, slightly bitter, and slightly sour taste.

What are Twizzlers?

Twizzlers are a type of candy that has been around since 1845. They are made by the Y&S Candies company, which is now part of the Ferrara Candy Company. Twizzlers are known for their chewy texture and their distinctive flavor, which is a combination of sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring.

Are Twizzlers Licorice?

So, are Twizzlers licorice? The answer is a resounding NO. Twizzlers do not contain any actual licorice root or extract. Instead, they get their distinctive flavor from a combination of artificial flavors and colors. In fact, the company that makes Twizzlers explicitly states that they do not use licorice root or extract in their products.

But Wait, There’s More!

While Twizzlers may not contain licorice root or extract, they do contain other ingredients that may be of interest to fans of licorice. For example, Twizzlers contain molasses, which is a thick, dark liquid that is made from refining sugar cane or sugar beets. Molasses has a strong, sweet flavor that is often associated with licorice. However, molasses is not the same as licorice root, and it does not contain the same active compounds that give licorice its distinctive flavor and aroma.

What About the Ingredients?

If Twizzlers don’t contain licorice root or extract, what’s in them? Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

• Sugar: The primary ingredient in Twizzlers, sugar gives them their sweetness and chewy texture.
• Corn Syrup: Corn syrup is a sweet, viscous liquid that helps to bind the sugar and other ingredients together.
• Molasses: As mentioned earlier, molasses is a thick, dark liquid that gives Twizzlers their distinctive flavor.
• Artificial Flavors: Twizzlers contain a blend of artificial flavors that give them their distinctive taste and aroma.
• Food Coloring: Twizzlers come in a range of colors, including red, blue, green, and yellow. The food coloring helps to give them their bright, vibrant colors.
• Preservatives: Twizzlers contain a range of preservatives, including potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate, to help extend their shelf life.

The Verdict

So, are Twizzlers licorice? The answer is a definitive NO. While they may contain some ingredients that are similar to licorice, they do not contain any actual licorice root or extract. If you’re looking for a licorice-flavored candy, you may want to consider other options. But if you’re a fan of chewy, sweet, and tangy candies, Twizzlers are definitely worth trying.

Comparison of Licorice and Twizzlers

Here’s a comparison of the ingredients in licorice and Twizzlers:

As you can see, the main difference between licorice and Twizzlers is the presence of licorice root in licorice. Twizzlers do not contain any actual licorice root or extract, but they do contain some ingredients that may be similar to licorice, such as molasses and artificial flavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Twizzlers are not licorice. While they may contain some ingredients that are similar to licorice, they do not contain any actual licorice root or extract. If you’re looking for a licorice-flavored candy, you may want to consider other options. But if you’re a fan of chewy, sweet, and tangy candies, Twizzlers are definitely worth trying.