Swedish Licorice: Sweet vs. Salty
Swedish licorice comes in two main types: sweet and salty. Sweet licorice has a mild, aromatic flavor from anise, making it approachable for beginners. Salty licorice, made with ammonium chloride, delivers a bold, sharp taste that’s loved in Nordic countries but can be polarizing elsewhere. Here’s the key difference:
- Sweet Licorice: Mild, sugary, and flavored with anise. Great for those new to licorice.
- Salty Licorice: Intense, tangy, and bold, thanks to salmiak salt (7% ammonium chloride). A favorite in Sweden but an acquired taste globally.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Sweet Licorice | Salty Licorice |
|---|---|---|
| Key Flavor | Mild, sweet, anise | Bold, salty, tangy |
| Main Ingredient | Sugar, anise extract | Ammonium chloride (salmiak salt) |
| Popularity | Preferred globally | Loved in Nordic countries |
| Health Considerations | High sugar content | Risks from ammonium chloride |
Swedes consume 35 pounds of candy annually, with salty licorice being a nostalgic favorite. Sweet licorice is easier for newcomers, while salty licorice reflects Nordic traditions. Try both to decide which suits your taste!
We Try Licorice – Sweet Licorice & Salty Licorice – Lördagsgodis from Ikea
History of Swedish Licorice
Licorice, with its roots in the Middle East and Asia, made its way to Europe in the 13th century. Initially, it was prized for its medicinal properties, particularly for soothing stubborn coughs and aiding digestion. By the late 1700s, however, licorice began its transformation from a pharmacy staple to a beloved confection. Denmark took the lead in licorice production, laying the groundwork for the Nordic countries, which today account for an astounding 80–90% of the world’s licorice consumption.
Sweet Licorice: From Remedy to Treat
Sweet licorice took a familiar path from medicine to candy. Its natural sweetness, enhanced with added sugars, created a mild anise flavor that appealed to many. By sticking to its medicinal origins and favoring natural licorice extract over synthetic ingredients, sweet licorice evolved into a gentle, flavorful treat. This foundation set the stage for Scandinavian candy makers to experiment with bold new flavors, giving licorice its modern identity.
Salty Licorice: A Nordic Innovation
While sweet licorice followed a gradual evolution, salty licorice was a game changer, born from Scandinavian ingenuity. Candy makers in the region began incorporating ammonium chloride into licorice, resulting in a bold, salty kick that resonated with local tastes.
"The combination of liquorice and ammonium chloride was initially used in medicinal lozenges designed to soothe coughs and clear airways. Apparently, these lozenges not only provided respiratory relief but also tasted good enough to become popular as a delicacy."
By the 1930s, salty licorice had firmly established itself across the Nordic countries. Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and even the Netherlands embraced it, producing it in the form of pastilles. Some historians suggest that the Nordic tradition of preserving food with salt may have played a role in fostering a love for this distinctive flavor.
Finnish author Jukka Annala succinctly captures its origins:
"Salty liquorice has its origins in pharmacy stores that manufactured their own cough medicine."
- Jukka Annala
Today, salty licorice remains a uniquely regional delicacy, adored in countries like Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and the Netherlands. Its popularity is reflected in consumption habits: the average Dutch person eats about four pounds of salty licorice annually, while Swedish varieties often contain around 7% ammonium chloride, delivering that unmistakable, sharp flavor punch.
Ingredients and How They’re Made
The main distinction between sweet and salty Swedish licorice lies in their ingredients and how they’re made. A single ingredient dramatically shifts the flavor profile, creating two very different taste experiences.
Sweet Licorice: A Blend of Sugar and Licorice Root
Sweet Swedish licorice is crafted with a simple recipe that leans on natural sweetness and gentle flavoring. The process involves blending butter, sugar, dark corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, molasses, whole-wheat flour, black food coloring, and anise extract before cooling. The key components include licorice root extract, sugar, wheat flour, and starch. The sweetness comes from granulated sugar, dark corn syrup, and molasses, while the anise extract contributes a mild, aromatic flavor.
Salty Licorice: The Salmiak Salt Factor
Salty licorice, on the other hand, takes a sharp turn in flavor thanks to one standout ingredient – salmiak salt (ammonium chloride). Although it shares the same basic ingredients as sweet licorice, the addition of approximately 7% salmiak salt gives it a bold, astringent taste often compared to tannins.
The ingredient list for salty licorice includes licorice root extract, salmiak salt, sugar, glucose syrup, modified starch, brown sugar syrup, and maltodextrin. Some recipes also incorporate anise oil for added depth.
For those who crave an even saltier kick, extra-salty varieties are coated with salmiak powder, salmiak salt, or table salt. This extra layer of saltiness can be intense for newcomers but is a favorite among seasoned fans.
Production-wise, salty licorice follows the same steps as its sweet counterpart until the ammonium chloride is introduced. The timing and quantity of this ingredient determine whether the saltiness is subtle or bold.
| Ingredient Category | Sweet Licorice | Salty Licorice |
|---|---|---|
| Base Ingredients | Licorice root extract, sugar, wheat flour, starch | Licorice root extract, sugar, wheat flour, starch |
| Key Differentiator | Molasses, anise extract | Salmiak salt (ammonium chloride) – avg. 7% |
| Additional Flavoring | Anise extract, dark corn syrup | Anise oil, glucose syrup |
| Extra Coating | Not applied | Salmiak powder or table salt for extra-salty varieties |
How They Taste
Swedish licorice comes in two distinct flavor profiles, each offering a unique experience for different taste preferences. Let’s dive into what makes these varieties stand out.
Sweet Licorice: Mild and Aromatic
Sweet Swedish licorice is all about subtlety and approachability. Its flavor is dominated by anise extract, which gives it a mild, aromatic sweetness that might remind you of fennel or star anise. This makes it an easy favorite for candy lovers who enjoy classic, gentle flavors.
The chewy texture, combined with the sweetness from glycyrrhizin – a natural compound that’s about 50 times sweeter than cane sugar – creates a satisfying treat. It’s a great starting point for those new to Swedish licorice and a comforting choice for fans of traditional candies.
Salty Licorice: Bold and Complex
Salty licorice, on the other hand, is a completely different beast. From the first bite, it delivers a strong, salty kick, thanks to ammonium chloride. This ingredient gives it an astringent, tangy taste that’s often likened to the tannins in red wine. It’s a flavor profile that surprises many first-timers.
"When your lips close around a bite of this strong, salty licorice, the potent Nordic taste explodes on your tongue, bringing up associations of the sea, tar, bonfire smoke and the scent of resin." – Lakrids by Bülow
The intensity of salty licorice can vary, depending on the amount of ammonium chloride and whether it has an extra salmiak coating. The saltiness enhances the anise flavor, leaving a long-lasting and unforgettable finish.
This bold flavor tends to divide opinions – you either love its briny, intense taste or you don’t. As Mark Bosworth from BBC World Service puts it:
"Salty licorice is an acquired taste – and many in Finland, Scandinavia and the Netherlands learn to love its sharp, sour flavors during childhood. But for those who are introduced to it later in life, the black stuff can be hard to stomach."
For those who grew up with salty licorice, it’s more than just candy – it’s a nostalgic connection. Pete Neuvonen, owner of Salmiakkikioski in Helsinki, explains:
"It is a flavor that you grow up with and there’s some comfort in that. You go back to your childhood. It is a strange thing to explain. If you are not a Finn you probably will not get it."
This stark contrast between sweet and salty licorice highlights the diverse preferences and cultural ties that make Swedish licorice so intriguing.
Who Prefers Which Type
The preference for sweet versus salty licorice often reflects cultural and geographic differences.
Sweden’s Love for Salty Varieties
Swedes are known for their love of candy, consuming an impressive 35 pounds of sweets per person annually. To put that into perspective, Americans consume just under 22 pounds per person each year.
Sweden is one of only six countries where salty licorice reigns supreme. Alongside Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and the Netherlands, these nations collectively consume a staggering 80–90% of the world’s licorice supply. Among them, the Netherlands leads the pack, with an average consumption of over 4.4 pounds per person annually.
For Swedes, the love for salty licorice is more than just a taste preference – it’s deeply tied to their culture and childhood memories. Scandinavians have long favored strong, salty flavors, a preference linked to their historic reliance on salt for food preservation. Traditions like Lördagsgodis (Saturday candy) play a big role, as Swedish kids often develop a taste for salty licorice during these weekly candy rituals. Studies even suggest that early exposure to salmiak – a key ingredient in salty licorice – shapes these preferences from a young age.
Outside of these Nordic countries, however, the bold flavor of salty licorice is less common, with many markets opting for sweeter varieties.
International Markets and Sweet Preferences
For most of the world, sweet licorice is the go-to option. The intense, salty flavors of Nordic licorice can be an acquired taste, especially for those who didn’t grow up with it. Adding to this, the ingredient that gives salty licorice its signature kick – ammonium chloride – is generally banned in foods across the EU. However, Nordic countries have a special exemption that allows its use in candy.
Francisca Listov-Saabye, Head of Product Development, explains this global trend:
"My mission is to create a licorice flavour for everyone and every occasion – there’s fruity red licorice for those new to the world of licorice while the more adventurous eater might choose to try sweet licorice with a touch of salty caramel or a more Nordic flavour with salmiak, for example."
The divide is clear: while Scandinavians embrace the boldness of salty licorice as part of their candy culture, the rest of the world leans toward the milder sweetness of traditional licorice. For anyone curious about experiencing authentic Swedish licorice, specialty retailers like Sugar Rush Emporium (https://sugarrushemporium.co.uk) offer a range of options, from sweet to salty, giving candy lovers a chance to explore these unique Nordic flavors.
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Health Effects and Safe Consumption
Swedish licorice, whether sweet or salty, comes with health considerations that candy enthusiasts should be aware of before digging in. Both types carry risks, and understanding them can help you make informed choices.
Sweet Licorice: The Sugar Factor
Sweet licorice is loaded with sugar, which can have serious consequences for your health when eaten regularly.
Impact on Heart Health: Sugar’s role in heart disease is more significant than many realize. Dr. Frank Hu from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health highlights this connection:
"Excess sugar’s impact on obesity and diabetes is well documented, but one area that may surprise many men is how their taste for sugar can have a serious impact on their heart health".
"Basically, the higher the intake of added sugar, the higher the risk for heart disease".
Studies show that consuming 17% to 21% of daily calories from added sugar increases the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by 38%, compared to those who consume only 8% of their calories this way. The American Heart Association recommends capping added sugar intake at 100 calories (6 teaspoons or 24 grams) per day for women and 150 calories (9 teaspoons or 36 grams) for men. However, many far exceed these limits – adult men average a staggering 24 teaspoons daily, equating to 384 calories. This overindulgence can lead to weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even heart disease. Excessive sugar can also elevate blood pressure and fuel chronic inflammation.
Dental Concerns: Sugar doesn’t just harm your heart – it’s also a major culprit behind tooth decay.
Salty Licorice: The Ammonium Chloride Issue
Salty licorice, on the other hand, introduces a different set of risks, thanks to its key ingredient, ammonium chloride. This compound gives salty licorice its bold flavor but can pose health concerns when consumed in large amounts.
Toxicity Risks: Ammonium chloride can become toxic at high doses. Salty licorice contains about 70 grams per kilogram of this compound. While small amounts are generally harmless, overindulgence can lead to serious health issues. As one expert points out:
"The ammonium chloride used to flavour salty liquorice is toxic…In small enough doses, the harm is negligible, relatively speaking.".
Effects on Blood Pressure: Overeating salty licorice can spike blood pressure, which is particularly worrisome for those with hypertension or heart problems.
Regulatory Concerns: Efforts to limit ammonium chloride in foods to 3 grams per kilogram have been proposed by the European Union, though some Nordic countries have resisted due to their strong attachment to salty licorice traditions.
General Risks of Licorice
Both sweet and salty licorice contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that can disrupt potassium levels and lead to serious health issues like irregular heart rhythms, high blood pressure, swelling, fatigue, and even heart failure. For example, consuming 2 ounces (57 grams) or more of black licorice daily for two weeks may cause irregular heartbeats in adults over 40. Health authorities suggest keeping glycyrrhizin intake under 100 mg per day – about the amount in 60–70 grams of licorice – or 200 mg per day (roughly 150 grams of licorice) as advised by Dutch guidelines.
Moderation Is Key: Experts recommend limiting glycyrrhizin intake to just 1–10 mg daily, which equates to about 1–5 grams of licorice. This means Swedish licorice is best enjoyed occasionally, not as a daily indulgence.
If you notice symptoms like irregular heart rhythms or muscle weakness, reach out to a healthcare provider. People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or kidney disease should consult their doctor before consuming licorice. Pregnant women, in particular, should avoid licorice altogether. One study warns:
"Licorice consumption during pregnancy may be associated with harm for the developing offspring.".
Where to Buy Swedish Licorice
Craving authentic Swedish licorice? Good news – you don’t need to book a flight to Scandinavia. You can find genuine Swedish licorice right here in the United States, thanks to online retailers.
Sugar Rush Emporium is a go-to destination for imported Swedish licorice. They offer both sweet and salty varieties, crafted using traditional recipes to capture the authentic taste and texture that Swedish licorice lovers adore. Their selection showcases the bold flavors and rich heritage of Scandinavian licorice.
Shopping online makes it easy to explore the different styles of Swedish licorice from the comfort of your home. If you’re new to this treat, consider starting with a mixed variety pack. It’s a great way to experience the contrast between the mild sweetness and the bold, salty flavors Swedish licorice is known for.
Explore these unique flavors today at Sugar Rush Emporium.
Sweet vs. Salty: Making Your Choice
The choice between sweet and salty licorice is more than just a flavor preference – it’s a dive into centuries of Scandinavian candy-making tradition. Whether you lean toward the mild sweetness or the bold saltiness, Swedish licorice offers something truly unique.
Sweet licorice is a gentle introduction for many. Its mild anise flavor, paired with sugar and licorice root, creates a familiar sweetness that’s easy to enjoy. If you’re a fan of black jelly beans or other anise-flavored treats, this might feel like a natural next step in your candy exploration.
Salty licorice, on the other hand, is an entirely different experience. Thanks to ammonium chloride, it delivers a sharp, intense flavor that stands out in the candy world. While Nordic countries have a strong love for salty licorice, it’s a taste that can be polarizing elsewhere. In Sweden, the most popular salty varieties typically contain about 7% ammonium chloride.
If health considerations play a role in your decision, keep in mind that sweet licorice tends to have a higher sugar content, while salty licorice should be enjoyed in moderation due to its ammonium chloride levels.
The best way to decide? Try both! Many first-timers to Swedish licorice find it helpful to start with milder salty options before venturing into the stronger flavors. Sampling different Nordic brands can also give you a broader sense of the variety and craftsmanship behind these treats.
Once you’ve discovered your favorite, finding authentic options is simple. Sugar Rush Emporium is an excellent place to begin your Swedish licorice journey, offering a range of sweet and salty varieties that showcase this beloved Scandinavian tradition. Whether you stick with the comforting sweetness or embrace the bold salty punch, you’ll be part of a tradition that has delighted taste buds for generations.
FAQs
What are the potential health risks of eating salty licorice, and how can you enjoy it safely?
Salty licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a natural compound that can pose health risks when consumed in large amounts. Excessive glycyrrhizin intake may lead to issues like elevated blood pressure, low potassium levels, and, in severe cases, heart-related problems such as arrhythmias. Individuals with conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease are particularly vulnerable.
To enjoy salty licorice without compromising your health, it’s best to limit how much you eat, especially if you have existing medical concerns. A safer alternative is deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which has the glycyrrhizin removed. If salty licorice is a regular treat for you, keeping an eye on your blood pressure and potassium levels can help you avoid potential complications.
Why is salty licorice more popular in Nordic countries than in other parts of the world?
Salty Licorice: A Nordic Favorite
Salty licorice, known as salmiakki, holds a special place in Nordic hearts thanks to its bold, unmistakable flavor and deep-rooted traditions. Unlike the sweet licorice varieties found in other parts of the world, this treat gets its signature salty kick from ammonium chloride. It’s a taste that’s anything but ordinary – and often described as one you grow to love. For many Scandinavians, that love begins in childhood.
What makes salty licorice so special in the Nordic region? Its popularity ties back to tradition. Historically, it was used as a remedy for sore throats, which adds a layer of nostalgia to every bite. Beyond that, its intense, warming flavor has been a comforting companion during the long, cold winters. These cultural and historical ties have made salty licorice more than just candy – it’s a cherished symbol of Nordic life.
What gives salty licorice its distinct flavor, and is it safe to eat?
Salty licorice owes its bold, unmistakable flavor to ammonium chloride, an ingredient that gives it that signature salty kick. While the taste might not appeal to everyone, it has a loyal following among licorice lovers who can’t get enough of its intensity.
When it comes to safety, ammonium chloride is considered safe to consume in moderation. The small amounts found in salty licorice aren’t harmful for most people. That said, eating too much could potentially cause issues like elevated blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms. Luckily, the strong flavor naturally limits how much you’re likely to eat in one sitting. So, go ahead and enjoy salty licorice as an occasional indulgence, appreciating its one-of-a-kind taste without overdoing it!