Joybuy Insights

Buying Dutch liquorice and sweets online: how to choose without making a mistake

Buying Dutch liquorice and sweets online might seem straightforward. But a flashy packet doesn’t tell you much about the taste, texture or whether it’s right for you. If you simply order a big bag of Dutch sweets without thinking, you could end up with liquorice that’s too hard, a flavour that’s too salty, or ingredients that don’t suit a vegan or gluten-free diet.

With these practical selection tips, you can compare products more effectively and quickly find the right soft liquorice, sweet liquorice, salty liquorice, liquorice fruit and wine gums.

Common pitfalls when ordering sweets

1. A Dutch name doesn’t automatically mean it’s suitable

A product from a well-known Dutch brand may contain gelatine, beeswax, wheat or sulphites. This also applies to classic Dutch liquorice. So always check the ingredients list and allergen information. The gluten-free or vegan label must appear on the specific product; you can’t assume it just from the brand name.

2. “Soft” and “sweet” aren’t fixed flavour standards

Soft liquorice can be mild and sweet, but it can also have a distinct salmiak or aniseed flavour. Sweet liquorice involves ingredients such as liquorice root extract, ammonium chloride and aniseed. If you’re actually after fruity wine gums, you’d be better off choosing liquorice fruit or a duo with a fruit layer.

3. A larger pack isn’t always better value

Compare the net weight, price per 100 grams and number of servings. A bag of 280 or 365 grams might look appealing for a family or gift hamper, but a smaller pack could be a better fit if you want to try different flavours. Also check the nutritional information: in this category, the sugar content is often around 44 to 71 grams per 100 grams.

What to look for in Dutch liquorice and sweets

Ingredients and dietary preferences

First, consider these points:

  • Gelatine: often derived from pork and therefore not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
  • Wheat and gluten: some types of liquorice contain wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients.
  • Liquorice root and ammonium chloride: give liquorice a strong, salty or slightly sharp flavour.
  • Sulphites: may be listed in connection with liquorice root extract or gelatine.
  • Glazing agents: for example, beeswax or carnauba wax. Carnauba wax is generally suitable for a vegan recipe, but beeswax is not.

If you have allergies, always check the label on the packaging you receive. Product compositions can change.

Texture and flavour profile

Choose based on when you plan to eat the sweets:

  • Hard sweet liquorice: ideal if you want to chew or suck on a sweet for longer.
  • Soft liquorice: has a smoother bite and is often more accessible for those who prefer milder flavours.
  • Salty liquorice: recognisable by ammonium chloride, salmiak or a higher proportion of liquorice root extract.
  • Liquorice fruit: combines liquorice with fruit flavours, sour notes or a wine gum texture.
  • Wine gums: usually fruitier and softer, with flavours like strawberry, blackcurrant and cherry.

The shape is mainly a matter of use and gifting. A car, bus or other recognisable shape doesn’t automatically tell you anything about the intensity of the flavour.

Nutritional information, packaging and storage

Sweets are meant as a treat. So look at the nutritional values per 100 grams and, if available, per serving. Store opened bags in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed, away from sunlight, heat and moisture. This helps preserve the texture. Also check the best-before date on the packaging and don’t use a bag if the packaging is damaged.

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners
Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs - 280 g

Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs - 280 g

Why this fits the profile: An accessible choice for anyone ordering sweets online for the first time who wants a soft, fruity bite. The strawberry, blackcurrant and cherry flavours make this bag ideal for sharing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a vegan recipe and none of the 14 major EU allergens. This makes the choice clearer, although it’s still wise to check the label.

Key benefit & highlights

280 grams, soft wine gum texture, three fruit flavours and, according to the product description, gluten-free.

Best for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Venco Sweet Licorice Katjesdrop - 235 g

Venco Sweet Licorice Katjesdrop - 235 g

Why this fits the profile: For fans of a clear, classic liquorice experience with a firm, chewy texture.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The flavour direction and texture are clearly described. So this isn’t a random mix when you’re specifically after firm, sweet liquorice.

Key benefit & highlights

235 grams, 5.4% liquorice root extract, gluten-free according to the product information and made in the Netherlands.

Best for: Specific use & intensive users
Venco Jubes - 235 g

Venco Jubes - 235 g

Why this fits the profile: Aimed at shoppers specifically looking for soft, sweet and salty liquorice without gelatine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description explicitly mentions a vegan and gluten-free recipe. The combination of a soft bite and ammonium chloride makes the flavour profile clearer than with a general mix.

Key benefit & highlights

235 grams, 4.9% liquorice root extract, 3.9% ammonium chloride and none of the 14 major EU allergens according to the product data.

Which liquorice suits your situation?

For a gift or a typical Dutch sweet hamper, a combination works well: one classic liquorice, one soft fruit variety and one vegan option. For families, Autodrop Cadillacs or Red Band Dropfruit Duos are practical thanks to their recognisable fruit component. If you’re mainly after salty liquorice, it’s better to filter specifically for ammonium chloride and salmiak rather than picking a random sweet mix.

With Venco products, pay close attention to the differences between variants. Venco Jubes is described as vegan and gluten-free, while Venco Droptoppers Soft and Sweet contains gelatine. Venco Droptoppers Tasty and Tough also contains wheat and gluten. So the product name alone isn’t enough for a reliable choice.

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 liquorice online

Where can I buy Dutch liquorice online?

You can buy Dutch liquorice online from a range that includes product information per pack. Compare brand, weight, texture, ingredients, allergens and nutritional values. This way, you’ll find Venco liquorice, Autodrop sweets, Red Band liquorice fruit and other Dutch sweets.

How do I recognise gluten-free sweets?

Look for the explicit gluten-free label and also check the ingredients list for wheat, barley, rye, oats and possible cross-contamination. If you have a serious allergy, it’s wise to check the actual packaging and allergen information before ordering.

How long does liquorice keep after opening?

The exact shelf life is stated on the packaging. After opening, liquorice generally keeps its texture better if you seal the bag tightly and store it in a cool, dry, dark place. Moisture and heat can make soft liquorice sticky and cause hard liquorice to clump together more quickly.