Joybuy Insights

Buying Dutch liquorice and sweets online: how to choose without disappointment

Buying Dutch liquorice and sweets online may seem straightforward, but product photos do not always tell the whole story. A bag may look large, while the actual contents are limited. Terms such as “soft”, “natural” or “vegan” also need to be checked against the ingredients list.

With this practical guide, you can assess flavour, texture, allergens and contents. That makes it easier to find a product that suits your family, gift hamper or store cupboard.

Common pitfalls when buying sweets online

1. “Soft” does not always mean the same thing

Soft liquorice can be smooth and chewy, but it can also dry out quickly if the packaging is not properly sealed after opening. The composition also affects winegums. Gelatine, starch and plant proteins can noticeably change the texture.

So check both the product description and the storage advice. Resealable packaging, or sealing the bag properly after use, helps preserve the texture for longer.

2. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free are often confused

These terms are not interchangeable:

  • Vegan sweets contain no ingredients of animal origin according to the product information.
  • Vegetarian sweets may, for example, contain gelatine-free ingredients, but you should check the precise definition on the label.
  • Gluten-free sweets mean that gluten is not present as an ingredient according to the stated product information. If you have an allergy, always check the current packaging and any risk of cross-contamination.

For example, Venco Soft Liquorice Mix contains gelatine and is not suitable for vegans. According to the product description, Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs contain no gelatine and are listed as vegan and gluten-free.

3. A large bag is not automatically better value

Compare the net contents, not just the size of the packaging. A 280-gram bag may look appealing, but a smaller pack can be more convenient for trying a product or putting together a gift. Also check the number of portions. With Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs, for example, a 25-gram portion is equivalent to around five sweets, with approximately eleven portions per bag.

The key specifications to check

Flavour profile: sweet liquorice, salty liquorice or fruit

Dutch sweet brands vary considerably in flavour. Check whether you are looking for:

  • Sweet liquorice with a mild, sugary flavour.
  • Salty liquorice with ammonium chloride and a stronger bite.
  • Liquorice fruit or liquorice and fruit sweets for a combination of sweet, sour and liquorice flavours.
  • A sweet mix with several shapes and flavours.

According to the product information, Venco Jubes combine soft, sweet and salty liquorice. Red Band Dropfruit Duos combine liquorice and winegum in a single sweet. For fruit lovers, soft winegums with strawberry, blackcurrant or cherry flavour are a natural choice.

Texture and coating

Look for terms such as soft bite, hard sugar confectionery, soft winegum or hard outer layer with a soft centre. Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs are soft gummies with three fruit flavours. Venco Mint Drop, on the other hand, is hard sugar confectionery with mint and herbal flavouring. Venco Tikkels have a hard exterior and soft centre, but according to the product details, contain gluten.

A sugar or sour coating can add extra flavour, but it can also affect the total amount of sugar. So check the nutritional values per 100 grams.

Ingredients, allergens and nutritional values

Pay particular attention to:

  • Sugars per 100 grams.
  • The presence of gelatine, beeswax or other animal-derived ingredients.
  • Gluten, sulphites and other allergens.
  • The net contents and recommended storage advice.
  • The best-before date on the packaging.

A product without the 14 major EU allergens is not automatically suitable for every individual allergy. If in doubt, always read the full label. Store sweets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not casually open a damaged pack.

Our recommendations by user profile

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

Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs - 280 g

Why it suits this profile: An accessible choice for anyone wanting to try soft fruit sweets while prioritising vegan and gluten-free product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify 280 grams of contents, three flavours and portion guidance. This makes the pack easier to compare than relying on the photo alone.

Main benefit & advantages

Soft gummies with strawberry, blackcurrant and cherry flavours; listed as vegan and gluten-free according to the product information, with natural colours and flavourings.

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

Venco Sweet Licorice Katjesdrop - 235 g

Why it suits this profile: Ideal for lovers of a clear, intense liquorice flavour and a firm, chewy texture.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies a firm texture, 5.4% liquorice root extract and aniseed oil. This gives you a clearer idea of what to expect from the flavour.

Main benefit & advantages

235 grams of contents; listed as gluten-free; distinctive liquorice and aniseed flavour with a firm bite.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Venco Jubes - 235 g

Venco Jubes - 235 g

Why it suits this profile: A practical option for anyone looking for soft sweet and salty liquorice without gluten, according to the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients list states that none of the 14 major EU allergens are present and does not mention gelatine. However, always check the current packaging before buying.

Main benefit & advantages

Listed as vegan and gluten-free; soft texture; 4.9% liquorice root extract and 3.9% ammonium chloride.

Suitable for: Families and gift shoppers
Red Band Dropfruit Duos - 365 g

Red Band Dropfruit Duos - 365 g

Why it suits this profile: The combination of liquorice and fruit makes this bag ideal for sharing, treats and anyone who does not want to choose just one flavour.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description highlights the double combination, soft bite and 365-gram contents. This makes the choice clearer before you buy.

Main benefit & advantages

Liquorice and winegum in one sweet; soft texture; listed as gluten-free and suitable for sharing.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Also look out for products with “drop” in the name

Not every product containing the word “drop” is a sweet. An online range may also include vitamin D drops for children, hyaluronic acid eye drops and a Korean facial serum. So always check the product category and instructions for use.

Dosage and recommended age vary between vitamin D drops. A supplement is not a replacement for a varied diet; do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Eye drops are a medical device and must be used according to the package leaflet. A serum is intended for external use only. These products therefore do not automatically belong in a sweets order.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy Dutch liquorice and sweets online?

You can search online within the liquorice category and filter by brand, contents, flavour, texture and ingredients. Popular choices include Autodrop, Venco, Red Band and Harlekijntjes. Before checking out, review the product information, delivery terms and best-before date on the packaging.

How long does sweets bought online stay fresh?

The exact shelf life is stated on the packaging. Unopened sweets should generally be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat. Seal the bag properly after opening to limit drying out and moisture absorption. Do not use a product from damaged packaging.

Which sweets are suitable for vegans or people avoiding gluten?

It varies from product to product. Autodrop Vegan Cadillacs and Venco Jubes are listed as vegan and gluten-free in the product information. Venco Soft Liquorice Mix contains gelatine and is not vegan. Check the current ingredients list and allergen information with every order, as recipes and packaging may change.