Buying sweets online is useful when you want to compare different flavours, sizes and brands. However, colourful packaging does not always tell you everything. A bag may look large, for example, but contain relatively little confectionery. Terms such as “natural”, “fruity” or “gluten-free” can also distract from the ingredients, allergens and nutritional values.
This practical guide focuses on the points that really matter when ordering online. That makes it easier to find soft sweets, liquorice, wine gums, sour sweets and sharing sweets to suit your occasion.
A wide bag or large box does not automatically contain many portions. Always check the net weight and compare it with the price. A 200-gram bag may be suitable for a small group, while for a party it is better to choose several packs or a larger sweet mix.
“Fruit”, “cherry” or “vanilla” usually describes the flavour, not the amount of fruit in the product. Check the ingredients list and nutritional information. For example, Fruitella Berries and Cherry Toffees states that the fruit juices used make up 3% of the ingredients in total. This gives you a clearer picture than simply looking at the name on the front.
Some types of sweets contain gelatine, milk, wheat, soya or sulphites. This also applies when the product is presented mainly as fruity or light. Check the label with every order, especially if you plan to share the sweets. Product compositions can change, so the packaging is always the deciding source.
Choose a bag of sweets, resealable pack or individually wrapped sweets depending on how you plan to use them:
Also check the storage instructions. Most products should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, the packaging should be kept tightly closed.
Not everyone is looking for the same thing. Soft sweets and wine gums are suitable if you prefer a soft, chewy bite. Liquorice ranges from sweet and firm to soft and intense. Sour sweets often contain citric acid, lactic acid or malic acid for a sharp flavour. Jelly beans, meanwhile, offer lots of small flavours in one pack.
A mix is useful when several people are eating. If you want a more defined flavour profile, choose just liquorice, cherry sticks, sour sticks or fruit toffees, for example.
Check the following before buying:
According to the manufacturer’s product information, some Red Band products are gluten-free and contain no artificial colourings. Always check the current packaging when buying, as recipes and labels may change.
Why it suits this profile: This mix combines jelly sweets, soft liquorice and marshmallow-style shapes. You can therefore try different flavours without immediately having to order several varieties.
The 235-gram net weight and mixed contents are clearly stated in advance. According to the product information, it contains none of the 14 main EU allergens and is gluten-free.
235 grams; a combination of fruit and liquorice-style flavours; packaging recyclable according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: The 365-gram pack is ideal for fans of classic wine gums who want a generous supply for several snacking occasions or visits from guests.
The size and product category are clear: original fruity wine gums combining liquorice and fruit flavours. This tells you what you are ordering instead of leaving you to judge by the packaging alone.
365 grams; gluten-free according to the product information; none of the 14 main EU allergens listed; packaging containing up to 50% bio-based plastic.
Why it suits this profile: The bag contains 11 individually wrapped strawberry and cherry-flavoured lollies. This makes the product practical for treats, parties and sharing.
The number of pieces is stated, so you can estimate in advance whether one bag will be enough. Soya is also identified as an allergen; check the current label before handing them out.
11 individually wrapped lollies; two flavours; paper sticks according to the product description; suitable for handing out individually.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose a pack with a clearly stated net weight, multiple pieces or individually wrapped portions. Lollies, wine gums, sweet mixes and fruit toffees are practical for guests and parties. Check the number of pieces in advance when ordering for a large group.
Store sweets according to the instructions on the packaging: in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Seal an opened bag tightly to limit moisture and contamination. Do not use a product if its packaging is damaged, and check the best-before information on the label.
Look at the texture, the proportion of liquorice or liquorice-root extract, the presence of gelatine and any potential allergens. For a firm, distinctive flavour, Venco Sweet Licorice Katjesdrop may be worth considering; for a softer bite, Italiano Soft Sweet Licorice or a mixed Red Band bag may be a better choice. Always compare the current ingredients list and nutritional values before ordering.