Buying marshmallows: how to choose the right bag for every occasion

Buying marshmallows seems simple, until you have to choose between mini marshmallows, BBQ marshmallows, soft varieties and colourful mixes. A large pack isn’t always better value if you won’t use all of it. Allergens, gelatine, added colourings and an unsuitable texture can also come as a surprise.

So keep an eye out for these three common pitfalls:

• Confusing pack size with contents: a large bag may contain relatively few marshmallows, or be better for sharing than baking.
• Overlooking flavour and size: mini marshmallows work differently in hot chocolate from large marshmallows on the barbecue.
• Looking only at the front of the pack: ingredients, allergens, nutritional information and storage advice are usually on the back. Always check the current packaging before ordering or eating.

What should you look for when buying marshmallows?

1. Choose the size to suit how you’ll use them

Mini marshmallows are a practical choice for hot chocolate. They’re easy to divide between several mugs and melt more quickly. Larger BBQ marshmallows are easier to handle on skewers and at the barbecue. If you’re decorating a cake, waffle or dessert, colourful shapes and different sizes can add more variety.

For baking, check whether the product description says the marshmallows are suitable for this purpose. Not all soft marshmallows have the same texture when heated.

2. Check the ingredients and allergens

Marshmallows often contain sugar, glucose syrup, gelatine and flavourings. Ingredients vary by brand and variety. For example, according to the product information, Haribo Primavera Fruity Marshmallows contains gelatine and may contain milk and gluten. Frisia Mini Marshmallows lists milk and soya allergens.

Some products state that they don’t contain any of the 14 major EU allergens. Always check this on the packaging, especially if you have an allergy or food intolerance. Recipes can also change, so the information on the packaging of the product you receive takes precedence.

Also check the colourings. Haribo Primavera lists fruit and plant concentrates for colour. Frisia Marshmallows Party lists E100, E120 and E131, among others. This doesn’t in itself tell you anything about the flavour or texture, but it can help you choose a product that suits your preferences.

3. Compare weight, nutritional information and shelf life

A 100 g bag is suitable for a small household or if you’re trying marshmallows for the first time. For a birthday, film night or barbecue, a 175 to 350 g pack may be more convenient. A larger pack means fewer small purchases, but only if you’ll use the marshmallows within the stated shelf life.

Nutritional values vary from product to product. According to the product information, Haribo Primavera Fruity Marshmallows contains 377 kcal and 77 g of sugar per 100 g. Frisia Mini Marshmallows lists 328 kcal and 65 g of sugar per 100 g. These figures can help you compare products, but they’re not advice on how much to eat.

Store marshmallows in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from heat and moisture. Seal the bag securely after opening. Check the shelf-life information on the packaging and don’t use a damaged pack.

Which marshmallows are right for you?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Frisia Mini Marshmallows - 100 g

Why it suits this profile: The 100 g pack is a manageable size for a small household, a first order or a few mugs of hot chocolate.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The small pack size reduces the chance of having leftovers you won’t use. Do check the listed milk and soya allergens.

Key benefit & highlights

Mini size, 100 g pack and, according to the product information, 65 g of sugar per 100 g.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Haribo Primavera Fruity Marshmallows - 200 g

Why it suits this profile: These fruity marshmallows combine a strawberry flavour with a strawberry coating, and are ideal for sharing.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product information clearly states the flavour, coating and source of the colour. That way, you know what you’re buying rather than relying on the packaging alone.

Key benefit & highlights

200 g pack, strawberry flavour and, according to the product description, fruit and plant concentrates for colour.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users

Frisia BBQ Marshmallows - 290 g

Why it suits this profile: This variety is designed for barbecues, and at 290 g it contains more for sharing with a group.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product description explains how they’re intended to be used, so you’re less likely to choose this pack by mistake if you only want marshmallows for hot chocolate.

Key benefit & highlights

290 g pack and, according to the product information, no ingredients from the 14 major EU allergens.

Suitable for: Families and fans of variety

Haribo Chamallows Mix - 175 g

Why it suits this profile: A mix of shapes and flavours is ideal for parties, decorating, baking, s’mores and hot chocolate.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The mix gives you several ways to use one bag, whether you’re serving or decorating. Check the full allergen information beforehand.

Key benefit & highlights

175 g pack, several shapes and flavours, and a product description that mentions baking and decorating.

Frequently asked questions about marshmallows

Which marshmallows are suitable for hot chocolate?

Mini marshmallows are a practical choice because they’re small and easy to divide between mugs. Frisia Mini Marshmallows is one example of a 100 g pack. Check the ingredients if you need to avoid milk, soya or other allergens.

Which marshmallows should you use for a barbecue?

Choose a product whose description specifically mentions barbecues, such as Frisia BBQ Marshmallows. Always use a suitable skewer, keep a safe distance from the flames and follow your barbecue’s safety instructions. Marshmallows can caramelise or burn quickly.

How do you store soft marshmallows after opening?

Store the bag in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from heat and moisture. Seal the pack securely to help prevent the marshmallows from drying out or becoming contaminated. Check the packaging for the exact shelf life and any additional advice.