Joybuy Insights

Buying Licorice: A Guide to the Most Popular Choices

Searching for the perfect licorice? Whether you're craving a classic sweet licorice, need a specific sugar-free option, or are looking for a large licorice mix for a party, the online selection can be overwhelming. The variety is immense, and each type has its own unique flavour and texture.

My name is Joybuy, and as a Product Recommendation Officer, my job is to help you navigate the assortment. In this article, I'll provide practical information and an overview of popular choices so you can easily find the licorice that's right for you.

What to Look for When Buying Licorice?

Before you make a choice, it's helpful to consider a few things. This will help you find the right type more quickly.

1. Flavour and Texture: The Foundation of Your Choice

Licorice comes in many flavours. The most common distinction is between sweet, salty, and salmiac. Sweet licorice often has a mild, accessible flavour. Salty and double-salted licorice contain more salmiac salt for a more intense, savoury taste. Additionally, the texture varies: from soft, chewy licorice pieces to hard varieties that you can savour for longer. Consider what your preference is.

2. Special Requirements: Sugar-Free, Gluten-Free, or Vegan

More and more people are looking for licorice that fits within a specific diet. Fortunately, manufacturers are responding to this demand.

  • Sugar-free licorice: Ideal if you're watching your sugar intake. This licorice is sweetened with alternatives like maltitol or stevia.
  • Gluten-free licorice: Not all licorice is gluten-free. Wheat flour is often used as a binding agent. If you're looking for gluten-free licorice, always check the ingredients list on the packaging.
  • Vegan licorice: Traditional licorice often contains gelatin (an animal product) as a binding agent. Vegan licorice uses plant-based alternatives such as gum arabic or starch.

3. Packaging and Occasion

Do you want to order licorice online for yourself or to share? For on-the-go, a small, resealable bag is convenient. If you're planning a birthday or want to stock up for the office, a large licorice mix in a bucket or value pack is a practical option.

Our Dutch Licorice Recommendations

Based on product specifications and popular demand, we have listed some interesting options for you.

Oldtimers Sneker Zoethoudertjes - 235 g

Oldtimers Sneker Zoethoudertjes - 235 g

Why it stands out: This Oldtimers licorice is made according to a traditional recipe with pure ingredients. The gum arabic base provides a firm texture, while licorice root and licorice powder give it a rich, spicy-sweet flavour. A key advantage is that this licorice is both vegan and gluten-free.

Pros:

  • Spicy-sweet flavour from pure ingredients.
  • Firm texture thanks to the use of gum arabic.
  • Free from gluten and animal-based gelatin.
  • Contains only natural colours and flavours.

Who is it for? For the enthusiast of classic, sweet licorice who wants to make a conscious choice based on ingredients. Also a great option for people with gluten intolerance or a vegan lifestyle.

Klene Sugar-Free Honey Licorice - 110 g

Klene Sugar-Free Honey Licorice - 110 g

Why it stands out:Klene licorice is known for its diverse range, and this sugar-free honey licorice is a prime example. This sugar-free licorice contains 0 grams of sugar and is sweetened with sweeteners. The taste of honey adds a soft and surprising twist to the traditional licorice flavour.

Pros:

  • Completely sugar-free, sweetened with maltitol syrup and steviol glycosides, among others.
  • Soft honey flavour.
  • Packaged in a convenient, resealable stand-up pouch.
  • Made according to an authentic Klene recipe.

Who is it for? For anyone who wants to enjoy a tasty piece of licorice without sugar. The resealable packaging makes it ideal for consumption at home or on the go.

Haribo Licorice Mix Bucket - 550 g

Haribo Licorice Mix Bucket - 550 g

Why it stands out: This bucket of Haribo licorice is exactly what its name promises: a large mix of well-known, soft, and sweet licorice varieties. At 550 grams, this is an ideal pack for sharing. The mix contains different shapes and flavours, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Pros:

  • Large licorice mix of 550 grams, perfect for parties or as a general stock.
  • A variety of soft, sweet licorice pieces.
  • Made without artificial colours.
  • A mix of well-known Haribo classics.

Who is it for? Ideal for party planners, families, or for the office. If you enjoy variety and like to have a generous supply of Dutch licorice at home, this bucket is a practical choice.

Still Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

The world of sweets is bigger than just licorice. Are you curious about other sweet options, such as wine gums, fruit gummies, or other treats? Then take a look at our broader assortment.

View more gelatin sweets

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Licorice

Where can I easily order Dutch licorice online?

To order licorice online, you can visit webshops with a wide and clear assortment. Here at Joybuy, you'll find various brands and types, from Klene licorice to Oldtimers licorice, delivered directly to your home. This allows you to compare specifications and ingredients at your leisure.

What is the difference between Klene and Oldtimers licorice?

Both are well-known Dutch licorice brands, but they often have a different focus. Oldtimers licorice positions itself with artisanal recipes and the use of pure ingredients like gum arabic, which often results in a firmer, more distinctive licorice. Klene licorice has a very broad range, including many soft varieties and a strong focus on sugar-free licorice.

Is all licorice gluten-free?

No, definitely not. Many types of licorice, especially salty and English licorice, contain wheat flour as a binding agent and are therefore not gluten-free. If you have a gluten intolerance, it's important to specifically look for gluten-free licorice. The Oldtimers Sneker Zoethoudertjes from this article are a good example of this. The most important tip is: always check the label for the most current and accurate information.