Joybuy Insights

Buy sweets online: how to choose flavour, texture and packaging without making a mistake

Buying sweets online is convenient when you’re looking for Dutch liquorice, soft sweets, fruit jellies or international sweets that aren’t always available in the supermarket. At the same time, you’ll quickly come across terms like “natural”, “fruit” and “sugar-free” online, without it being immediately clear what’s actually inside the packet.

With these practical checks, you can compare sweets based on ingredients, portion size, texture and when you plan to eat them. That way, you’ll find something for with your coffee, a treat for the kids, snacks for on the go, or a mixed sweet selection to share.

Common pitfalls when buying sweets online

1. A fruit name doesn’t automatically mean low sugar

Products with words like fruit, grape, strawberry or mango can still be mostly sugar, glucose syrup or sweeteners. So don’t just look at the front of the packet – also check:

  • the ingredients list;
  • the sugar content per 100 grams;
  • the portion size;
  • any added colours and flavourings.

For example, the COZZO Fruit Jelly Sticks state 26 grams of sugar per 100 grams. The individually wrapped sticks are practical, but the nutritional information still matters if you eat several in a row.

2. “Sugar-free” isn’t the same as without any concerns

Sugar-free liquorice often uses sweeteners such as maltitol, erythritol or steviol glycosides. Some products explicitly state that excessive consumption may have a laxative effect. This is important information when you’re buying sugar-free liquorice for home or on the go.

According to the product information, Klene Sugarfree Honey Liquorice contains 0 grams of sugar per 100 grams, but it does contain maltitol and steviol glycosides. Always check the current packaging and follow the warnings on the label.

3. “Soft” doesn’t tell you much about the exact texture

Soft sweets can be soft and elastic, but also smooth, chewy or rather firm. Gummies made with gelatine also have a different structure to jellies based on pectin, agar or konjac.

So pay attention to the product description and the ingredients. If you have an allergy, a dietary requirement, or you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan sweets, the gelling agent used is especially important. A product containing gelatine, for example, won’t suit everyone’s preferences.

Three checks before you order

1. Check allergens and dietary preferences

The 14 major EU allergens must be clearly stated on the label when they are present in a product. Look out for milk, soya, peanuts, nuts and cereals containing gluten, among others.

Examples from the range:

  • Lonka Soft Nougat Milk Peanut contains milk, peanuts and soya, and may contain nuts.
  • Harlekijntjes Soft Sweet Licorice contains wheat and gluten.
  • Cokoc Peelable Gummies, according to the product information, does not list any of the 14 major EU allergens, but if you have a sensitivity, always check the packaging yourself.
  • Lonka Soft Nougat Caramel is described as gluten-free, but according to the product information it may contain eggs, nuts and peanuts.

Gluten-free sweets are therefore not automatically free from other allergens.

2. Look at weight and portions

A 300-gram bag might seem good value, but it’s really best for sharing or storing for a longer period. Smaller packs are more practical for a bag, lunchbox or trip.

Individual wrapping can also help with portion control. The FRUIT 100% STICK JELLY, for example, comes in stick form and the sticks are individually wrapped. According to the product description, it contains no added sugar, artificial colours or preservatives. Always check this information against the actual label when you receive it, especially if you’re giving it to children.

3. Match flavour and texture to the occasion

For coffee or tea, choose something like nougat, such as Lonka Soft Nougat Caramel or the version with milk chocolate and peanuts. For a film night, a mixed sweet selection with liquorice, salmiak and fruit works better. For on the go, small, individually wrapped products are the most practical.

If you want to try international sweets, you could look at Chinese hawthorn snacks, Japanese-style fruit jellies or Thai jelly products. Pay attention to the language on the label, storage instructions, and whether colours or preservatives are present.

Our recommendations by buyer profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Harlekijntjes Soft Sweet Licorice - 300 g

Harlekijntjes Soft Sweet Licorice - 300 g

Why this fits the profile: A generous bag of soft, sweet liquorice for fans of a milder Dutch liquorice flavour. Handy for home or for sharing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The weight and ingredients are clearly stated. Please note: this product contains wheat and gluten.

Key benefit & highlights

300 grams; soft texture; suitable for sharing; resealable for storage after opening, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Lonka Soft Nougat Milk Peanut - 220 g

Lonka Soft Nougat Milk Peanut - 220 g

Why this fits the profile: A soft nougat with peanuts and a milk chocolate coating, presented in a tray that’s perfect for coffee moments and when you have guests.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The texture, packaging and allergens are all described in detail. It’s not a suitable choice for anyone with a peanut, milk or soya preference.

Key benefit & highlights

220 grams; soft nougat; milk chocolate; according to the product information, gluten-free and made with UTZ-certified chocolate.

Suitable for: Specific use & frequent users
Klene Sugarfree Honey Liquorice - 110 g

Klene Sugarfree Honey Liquorice - 110 g

Why this fits the profile: For anyone consciously looking for sugar-free liquorice and wanting a compact bag to take to work, in the car or on a day out.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging lists the sweeteners and the warning about excessive consumption. This helps you make a more informed choice based on how you plan to use it.

Key benefit & highlights

110 grams; 0 grams of sugar per 100 grams according to the product information; resealable bag; none of the 14 major EU allergens listed.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying sweets online

Which sweets are handy for on the go?

Choose small packs or individually wrapped sticks and jellies. FRUIT 100% STICK JELLY, COZZO Fruit Jelly Sticks and ENNJOI Peeling Gummy Candy are examples of formats that, according to the product information, are easy to take with you. Store sweets in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.

What should I look for when buying sweets for children?

Check the age recommendation, allergens, ingredients and any warnings about colours. Some colours, such as E102 and E129, may, according to the product information, have a negative effect on activity and attention in children. Give sweets in moderation and always read the current packaging. Products that seem suitable as a fruit snack are not automatically a daily replacement for fruit.

How long do sweets keep?

The best-before date is on the packaging. Store sweets according to the advice given: usually in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Seal an opened bag well to prevent changes in texture and flavour. If the packaging is damaged, it’s best not to use the product.