Putting together a confectionery selection online seems easy, until you choose a large bag of one flavour and realise that not everyone likes it. Small packs can also work out relatively expensive, while a large bag may contain more sweets than a small group can eat. Comparing products carefully helps you avoid these disappointing purchases.
When buying sweets, pay particular attention to three common pitfalls:
A well-chosen sweet mix combines different flavours and textures. Think of gummy sweets with a soft bite, sour sweets with a sharp, tangy coating and fruit sweets with a softer, sweeter flavour. For children and families, a mix often works better than several bags containing almost the same flavour.
Also consider the shape. Sweets in individual shapes, sticks or individually wrapped rolls are handy for party bags and treats. A large bag containing one type of sweet is ideal for a film night, birthday party or buffet.
Do not just compare the price on the product page; check the net contents as well. An 80-gram bag may appear attractively priced, while a 200- or 400-gram pack offers a lower price per 100 grams. Smaller packs are useful, however, for trying different flavours or handing out individual portions.
For sweets to share, packs of around 200 grams or more are generally practical. For a larger group, a 400-gram bag may be more convenient, especially if you are putting out several flavours.
Check the label before ordering, especially when catering for a mixed group. Many gummy products contain gelatine, while some varieties contain milk or wheat, or may contain traces of gluten.
If you are looking for vegetarian sweets, you could consider HARIBO Dragibus Soft, for example. According to the product information, this variety is suitable for vegetarians. The ingredients list does state, however, that the product contains cereals containing gluten and may contain traces of wheat.
For vegan sweets, check particularly carefully whether the specific pack is labelled as such. A product containing fruit concentrate or natural flavourings is not automatically vegan. According to the product information, Bebeto Sour Blast Happy Raspberry is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, but it does contain wheat.
The ingredients can also vary between varieties of Turkish sweets. Bebeto J Mix and Bebeto J Cherry are produced by Kervan Gıda in Turkey. The product information for both packs states that they contain none of the 14 major EU allergens. Check the label again when your order arrives, as the packaging is the definitive source of information.
Why it suits this profile: The small pack is ideal for trying a mixed selection of flavours without ordering a large quantity straight away. It is also handy for a party bag or a small sweet treat.
The 80-gram size makes the purchase easy to manage. You are not paying upfront for a large stock that may not be eaten in time.
80 grams of mixed sweets; the product information states that it contains none of the 14 major EU allergens.
Why it suits this profile: These colourful fruit sweets are ideal for people who enjoy a variety of fruit flavours and a soft texture. The 200-gram pack is suitable for sharing.
The product information lists six fruit varieties and clearly states that the product is suitable for vegetarians. This means you have to rely less on assumptions based on the packaging.
200 grams; suitable for vegetarians according to the product information; six fruit varieties.
Why it suits this profile: The extra-large bag is practical for birthdays, clubs, events and households where sweets are shared regularly. The peach flavour is clearly defined.
The larger size means you do not need several small bags for a group. Choose this pack only if you can genuinely use the quantity.
400 grams; soft peach-flavoured sweets; according to the product information, free from artificial colourings.
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.
For fans of a distinctive sour flavour, Haribo Fizz Bubble 200 g is a natural choice. According to the product description, these sour sweets have a bubblegum flavour and are designed for sharing. The pack lists wheat and milk among its allergens.
If you prefer to alternate between sweet and sour, consider Red Band Fizzy Mix Soft Sweet and Sour 215 g. The mix includes sour gummies, cola bottles and fizzy bottles. The product information states that it contains none of the 14 major EU allergens, but the product does contain gelatine.
For handing out individually, Mentos Mini Fruit Mix, with 18 individually wrapped mini rolls, and the small Cokoc packs are practical options. For unusual products, such as a lollipop with music, pay particularly close attention to the usage instructions and allergen information on the packaging.
For a party, choose several textures and flavours, such as fruit sweets, sour sweets and soft gummies. Packs of 200 to 400 grams are practical for a group. If children with allergies are attending, it is sensible to keep products separate and make the packaging available.
According to the product information, store sweets in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat and moisture. Reseal the pack securely after opening. An airtight sweet jar helps to preserve the texture, but always check the best-before information on the packaging.
Do not search only for terms such as “fruit” or “gummy”; check the ingredients and dietary information as well. Gelatine generally makes a product unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. Milk, beeswax and other ingredients may also be relevant. The product packaging remains the most up-to-date source of information when making your purchase.