Buying Asian snacks online can sometimes be a gamble. You see interesting packaging, read a vague description, and hope for the best. Especially with a specific flavour like that of a hawthorn snack, you want to be sure you're making the right choice. Whether you're seeking the nostalgic taste of your childhood or want to try a new, unique fruit snack, it's helpful to know exactly what you're getting.
This guide will help you make an informed choice. We'll look at the factual product specifications, so you know precisely what to expect from this classic Chinese candy.
What to Look for When Choosing a Hawthorn Snack?
A hawthorn snack, also known as haw flakes or hawthorn candy, is beloved for its signature sweet and sour taste. The variations are often in the details. Here are a few practical criteria to base your choice on.
- Shape and texture: The most traditional form is the thin, round hawthorn discs stacked on top of each other. These are often a bit harder and more brittle. There are also soft, filled balls or other creative shapes that have a chewier texture.
- Flavour profile: Are you going for the pure, unadulterated sweet and sour hawthorn flavour? Or do you prefer a version with an extra dimension of flavour, such as a filling of another fruit?
- Ingredients and allergens: It's always wise to check the ingredients list. The base is typically hawthorn and sugar. Pay attention to additives or allergens, such as sulphites (SULPHUR DIOXIDE), which may be present in some varieties for preservation.
- Packaging: Looking for a snack for on the go? Then individually wrapped portions are practical. For home use, a larger, resealable bag may suffice.
Our Selection of Hawthorn Snacks for 2026
Based on the criteria above, we have curated a selection of O'Say hawthorn snacks. We will detail the specifications of each product, allowing you to decide which one best suits your preference.
1. O’Say Hawthorn Flakes 138g
- Why this product: This is the classic version of the hawthorn snack. The thin, stacked discs offer the authentic taste and texture that many know as haw flakes.
- Advantages: The rolls are individually wrapped, making them hygienic and easy to take with you. The flavour is pure and focused on the characteristic balance between sweet and sour of the hawthorn fruit.
- Who is this for: For those seeking the nostalgic, traditional hawthorn experience or for anyone wanting to try this Asian snack for the first time in its most recognisable form.
Product Specifications:
- Main ingredients: Hawthorn, Sugar, Maltose, Corn Starch.
- Allergens: Contains SULPHUR DIOXIDE AND SULPHITES (sulphites).
- Nutritional value (per 100g): Energy 1350 kJ / 323 kcal, Carbohydrates 80.5 g (of which sugars 65.8 g), Fat 0.3 g.
- Net weight: 138g.
2. O‘Say Hawthorn balls with passion fruit jam 105g
- Why this product: This variety gives a modern twist to the classic snack. The soft hawthorn balls have a core of passion fruit jam, which provides an extra fruity and tropical flavour dimension.
- Advantages: The texture is soft and chewy, unlike the traditional discs. The combination of the sourness of the hawthorn and the sweet, aromatic quality of the passion fruit offers a layered flavour experience. These are also individually wrapped.
- Who is this for: For the adventurous eater who wants to experience the familiar hawthorn taste with a surprising twist. Also a great choice for lovers of tropical fruit.
Product Specifications:
- Main ingredients: Hawthorn (50%), Sugar, Maltose Syrup, Passion Fruit Juice Concentrate (5%).
- Allergens: No allergens listed in the specifications.
- Nutritional value (per 100g): Energy 1300 kJ / 311 kcal, Carbohydrates 78 g (of which sugars 65 g), Fat 0.5 g.
- Net weight: 108g.
3. O'Say Jujube and Hawthorn Hamburger 150g
- Why this product: A playful and creative take on the hawthorn snack. The "hamburger" shape, with hawthorn discs as the "bun" and jujube (red date) paste as the "filling," makes this a fun and unique treat.
- Advantages: The combination of the sourness of the hawthorn and the natural, caramel-like sweetness of the jujube creates a complex and satisfying flavour. The soft, chewy texture and fun shape make it an appealing snack for both adults and children.
- Who is this for: Ideal for parents looking for a fun fruit snack for their children, or for anyone seeking an original, shareable treat for tea or a gathering.
Product Specifications:
- Main ingredients: Hawthorn, Jujube (Red Dates), Sugar, Maltose Syrup.
- Allergens: No allergens listed in the specifications.
- Nutritional value (per 100g): Energy 1320 kJ / 315 kcal, Carbohydrates 78 g (of which sugars 58 g), Fat 0.5 g.
- Net weight: 150g.
Haven't Found What You're Looking For?
The world of the Chinese hawthorn snack is diverse. Besides these three options, there are numerous other varieties, such as hawthorn bars, lollipops, or snacks with other types of fruit fillings. Each variant offers a slightly different texture or flavour balance.
If the products above aren't exactly what you had in mind, or if you're simply curious about what else is out there, you can browse our full range.
-> Explore all our Chinese Hawthorn snacks here
Frequently Asked Questions about Hawthorn Snacks
1. What exactly is a hawthorn snack? A hawthorn snack is a type of Chinese confectionery made from the fruit of the hawthorn bush (Crataegus pinnatifida). The fruits are puréed, mixed with sugar, and then dried into various shapes, such as the well-known thin discs known as haw flakes. It is a popular sweet and sour snack in many parts of Asia.
2. What does hawthorn taste like? The taste of hawthorn is distinctly sweet and sour. It is comparable to the tartness of cranberries or a sour apple, but with its own unique, lightly floral and fruity aroma. In candy form, the sour taste is balanced with sugar, resulting in a unique and refreshing flavour.
3. Is hawthorn candy a responsible choice? It is a fruit-based snack, meaning its foundation comes from fruit. However, like most types of candy, sugar is added. To determine how the snack fits into your diet, it is advisable to consult the nutritional information and ingredients list on the packaging. The amount of sugar and calories per 100 grams provides a clear picture.
Written by the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer
