Buying sweets online seems simple: choose a flavour, size and brand, then pay. Yet online shoppers often end up with packaging that looks larger than its contents, a flavour description that says very little, or a product that does not suit their dietary preferences.
When comparing products, pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:
Use product photos mainly to assess the shape and packaging. Before completing your purchase, always check the ingredients, allergen information and best-before date on the product page and packaging.
If you are looking for vegan sweets, do not just look for words such as “fruit” or “natural”. Gelatine is often found in gummies, wine gums and soft sweets. Fruittella Mini Vegan explicitly states that the product is vegan and contains none of the 14 major EU allergens. This makes it a clearer option for sharing with people who have different dietary preferences.
Other products have specific points to consider:
A statement such as “may contain” is not something to overlook. If you have an allergy or intolerance, compare the complete and current packaging information and contact the seller if you are unsure.
The sweets category ranges from soft gummies to crunchy freeze-dried sweets. Think about what you are buying them for:
A product containing 10% concentrated fruit juice has a different composition from a sweet that only lists fruit flavourings. This does not automatically say anything about what you will enjoy, but it does help you assess the product description more realistically.
Sweets are generally a treat containing plenty of carbohydrates and sugars per 100 grams. Nutritional information is therefore mainly useful for comparing products and portions, rather than judging whether a product is “healthy”.
For example:
Some imported candy snacks carry warnings about colourings E102, E110 and E129. According to the product information, these substances may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children. When buying sweets for children, read the warning on the packaging and supervise them while they eat, especially younger children.
Why it suits this profile: A familiar 200-gram bag of sour sweets with a bubblegum flavour, ideal for sharing.
The net weight is clearly stated. The product information also lists gluten and milk, so you are not relying on the packaging alone.
200 g, sour flavour, no artificial colourings according to the product description, and suitable for sharing.
Why it suits this profile: Individually wrapped mini sticks with strawberry, banana and orange flavours are ideal for a polished sharing occasion at home or at a party.
The portions are individually wrapped. The product information states that it is vegan and contains natural flavourings and natural colours; check the packaging when you buy.
203 g, 16 mini sticks, three flavours and, according to the product information, free from the 14 major EU allergens.
Why it suits this profile: A compact candy snack for on the go, with a peelable outer layer and mango flavour.
The bag contains 65 g, so you will not accidentally buy a large sharing pack. The ingredients list 6.2% mango purée and beef gelatine.
65 g, two-layer texture, peelable shape and suitable for eating straight away according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: The sushi shape makes these sweets a fun gift or an eye-catching addition to a party.
The contents and composition are clearly stated: 100 g, with marshmallows and gummies in cola and fruit flavours. The product contains wheat and gelatine.
100 g, multiple shapes and flavours, eye-catching presentation and ready to serve straight away.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Most products should be stored unopened in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Once opened, keeping the packaging tightly sealed is important to help prevent the sweets from drying out or sticking together. Freeze-dried sweets are especially sensitive to moisture, so seal the bag immediately after use.
When buying a bag of sweets for a party, check the best-before date. Do not buy based solely on a temporary offer; also check the net weight, number of portions and whether the packaging can be resealed. For children, remember that young children need supervision while eating sweets.
Choose a pack of around 145 to 250 grams, such as Haribo Happy Cherries at 250 grams, Haribo Fizz Bubble at 200 grams or Red Band Fruit Bits at 145 grams. Individually wrapped Fruittella Minis are practical when several people each want to take their own portion.
Look for an explicit vegan label and then check the ingredients list. Gelatine, milk ingredients and beeswax may make a product unsuitable. Fruittella Mini Vegan is described as vegan in the product information; check the current packaging with every order.
The exact date is stated on the packaging. Once opened, sweets generally retain their texture better when stored in an airtight, dry container. Always follow the manufacturer's storage advice and do not use a pack if it is damaged or if the sweets have clearly changed in smell, colour or texture.