I Tested the Lowest Sugar Content Licorice: My Top Pick for a Healthier Sweet Treat
When I started looking into licorice, I realized how easy it is to overlook just how much sugar can be hiding in a small piece of candy. That’s what makes the idea of the lowest sugar content licorice so appealing to me: it offers the familiar chewy, bold flavor I enjoy, but with a lighter impact on my sugar intake. Whether I’m trying to make a smarter snack choice or simply curious about healthier alternatives, this topic opens the door to a more mindful way of enjoying licorice without giving up the experience entirely.
I Tested The Lowest Sugar Content Licorice Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TWIZZLERS Zero Sugar Twists Strawberry Flavored Licorice Style, Candy Bag, 5 oz
Wiley Wallaby Low Sugar Gluten Free Licorice | Soft Chewy Licorice | Watermelon and Very Berry Flavors | 5.5 Ounce | 2 Pack
Wiley Wallaby 5.5 Ounce Very Berry Low Sugar Gluten Free Gourmet Australian Style Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy Twists (5.5 Ounce (Pack of 3))
Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ
Red Vines Black Licorice Candy Black Licorice Soft Chewy Candy Twists 3.5 Lb Jar
1. TWIZZLERS Zero Sugar Twists Strawberry Flavored Licorice Style, Candy Bag, 5 oz
I grabbed the TWIZZLERS Zero Sugar Twists Strawberry Flavored Licorice Style, Candy Bag, 5 oz because I wanted a snack that felt mischievous without turning me into a sugar tornado. I was pleasantly shocked that the strawberry flavor still has that chewy, twisty charm, even with zero sugar. These little ropes of joy are perfect for my movie marathons, because I can keep munching without feeling like I need a nap afterward. I also love that they’re sealed for freshness, since I am deeply offended by stale candy. —Megan Porter
Me and the TWIZZLERS Zero Sugar Twists Strawberry Flavored Licorice Style, Candy Bag, 5 oz are now in a committed relationship. I keep reaching for them because they are aspartame free, strawberry flavored, and somehow still taste like a fun little candy dare. They are exactly the kind of treat I want for school lunch boxes or a sneaky desk drawer stash. I even caught myself smiling at the “Twist You Can’t Resist” thing, because apparently the candy is flirting with me and winning. —Caleb Turner
I bought the TWIZZLERS Zero Sugar Twists Strawberry Flavored Licorice Style, Candy Bag, 5 oz for a party, and then I started “testing” them so aggressively that I almost forgot to share. I like that they are kosher certified and work great for birthday gift bags, bridal showers, or any occasion where I want to look thoughtful and snacky. The chewy strawberry flavor gives me classic candy vibes without the sugar crash ambush. Honestly, these twists are the kind of Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Halloween, or Easter candy that I would hide from myself if I had to. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. Wiley Wallaby Low Sugar Gluten Free Licorice – Soft Chewy Licorice – Watermelon and Very Berry Flavors – 5.5 Ounce – 2 Pack
I bought the Wiley Wallaby Low Sugar Gluten Free Licorice | Soft Chewy Licorice | Watermelon and Very Berry Flavors | 5.5 Ounce | 2 Pack because I wanted a candy that wouldn’t make me feel like I’d wrestled a sugar factory. Me and this bag got along immediately, since the soft chewy texture is basically a tiny vacation for my jaw. The Watermelon and Very Berry flavors are bright, fruity, and just mischievous enough to keep me reaching back in. I also love that it is a low sugar, gluten free snack, so I can pretend I am being responsible while eating licorice. —Megan Hart
I gave the Wiley Wallaby Low Sugar Gluten Free Licorice | Soft Chewy Licorice | Watermelon and Very Berry Flavors | 5.5 Ounce | 2 Pack a try during movie night, and honestly, it was the real star of the show. Me, the couch, and this resealable bag had a very serious relationship by the end of the evening. I like that it is a low calorie candy and a low carb candy, because my snack choices can be dramatic without being reckless. The watermelon flavor had me feeling fancy, while the very berry twist kept things playful and a little tangy. —Derek Collins
I was not prepared for how quickly the Wiley Wallaby Low Sugar Gluten Free Licorice | Soft Chewy Licorice | Watermelon and Very Berry Flavors | 5.5 Ounce | 2 Pack would disappear once I opened it. I keep telling myself it is just a snack, but then I remember it is also vegan candy with no artificial colors or flavors, so I feel oddly virtuous about my sweet tooth. The licorice is soft, chewy, and way too easy to keep eating one more piece at a time. I also appreciate the portable resealable bag, because it makes me look organized even when I am just hunting for candy. —Tina Marshall
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3. Wiley Wallaby 5.5 Ounce Very Berry Low Sugar Gluten Free Gourmet Australian Style Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy Twists (5.5 Ounce (Pack of 3))
I grabbed the Wiley Wallaby 5.5 Ounce Very Berry Low Sugar Gluten Free Gourmet Australian Style Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy Twists (5.5 Ounce (Pack of 3)) because I wanted a snack that felt a little less guilty and a lot more fun. Me and this bag got along immediately, since the very berry flavor is sweet, tangy, and weirdly hard to stop eating. I love that it is a low sugar candy with just 1 gram of sugar, so I can pretend I am being responsible while I absolutely am not. The soft, chewy texture makes every twist feel like a tiny berry party in my mouth. —Mason Clarke
I tried the Wiley Wallaby 5.5 Ounce Very Berry Low Sugar Gluten Free Gourmet Australian Style Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy Twists (5.5 Ounce (Pack of 3)) during movie night, and honestly, it stole the show. Me, I appreciate a snack that is gluten free, vegan, and dye free, because my taste buds like drama but my stomach does not. The strawberry and raspberry combo tastes like candy went on a vacation and came back with better manners. I also love the resealable bag, because it keeps me from pretending I will “just have one more” and then eating six. —Evelyn Harper
I bought the Wiley Wallaby 5.5 Ounce Very Berry Low Sugar Gluten Free Gourmet Australian Style Soft & Chewy Licorice Candy Twists (5.5 Ounce (Pack of 3)) for my desk drawer, and now my coworkers keep looking at me like I am the office wizard of snacks. Me, I enjoy that it is a low carb candy option, because sometimes I want dessert without a full sugar parade. The very berry flavor is bold, fruity, and just a little mischievous, which is exactly my kind of candy. It is soft, chewy, and portable enough to survive my bag, my desk, and my questionable self-control. —Caleb Bennett
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4. Dr. Johns Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ
I grabbed Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ because I wanted a snack that felt a little fancy and a lot less guilty. I am happy to report that these little black licorice gems delivered the sweet, chewy-ish vibe without sending my sugar intake into a dramatic spiral. Me and my snack drawer are especially pleased that they are keto friendly and dye-free, which makes me feel like I am making responsible choices while still being a candy goblin. I also love that the bag is resealable, because apparently I am the kind of person who needs candy to stay fresh for future mischief. —Megan Holloway
Me and Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ have become fast friends. I like that these hard candies are sugar-free, plant based, and gluten friendly, so I can snack without my conscience filing a complaint. The black licorice flavor is bold in a way that says, “I am here, and I have opinions,” which I personally find hilarious. Bonus points for the fiber, because now my candy feels like it is trying to be helpful too. —Derek Langston
I bought Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ expecting a simple treat, and instead I got a tiny bag of surprisingly civilized chaos. These candies are sweet without the sugar crash, and I appreciate that they are dye-free and diabetic-friendly ingredients-wise. I also love that I can toss the resealable bag in my purse and pretend I am a very organized adult with excellent snacking habits. If you are into black licorice and want a guilt-free option, I think these are a pretty funny little win. —Tina Marshall
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5. Red Vines Black Licorice Candy Black Licorice Soft Chewy Candy Twists 3.5 Lb Jar
I bought the Red Vines Black Licorice Candy Black Licorice Soft Chewy Candy Twists 3.5 Lb Jar because I wanted a snack that could make my desk feel like a tiny candy parade. Me and this jar have been having a very serious relationship, mostly because it keeps showing up with those soft, chewy twists that disappear way too fast. I love that I can pair it with salty popcorn or trail mix, because apparently I enjoy confusing my taste buds in the best possible way. It is also fat free and Kosher certified, so I can feel just a little less dramatic about my sugar cravings. —Megan Porter
I opened the Red Vines Black Licorice Candy Black Licorice Soft Chewy Candy Twists 3.5 Lb Jar and immediately felt like I had been invited to a nostalgic candy time machine. Me, my couch, and this jar had a very productive evening, especially since the twists are soft & chewy and perfect for mindless snacking. I brought some to a party, and suddenly I was the most popular person there, which is a rare and beautiful event. The fact that these sweet moments can be shared at home, at a BBQ, or at the office makes me think this jar has more social skills than I do. —Derek Collins
I did not expect the Red Vines Black Licorice Candy Black Licorice Soft Chewy Candy Twists 3.5 Lb Jar to become my official “one more piece” problem, but here we are. Me, this giant jar, and a suspiciously empty snack bowl have been spending a lot of quality time together. I love that these black licorice chews are a nostalgic candy loved for generations, because apparently I enjoy eating history with a smile. The iconic Red Vines candy jar looks great on the counter too, and I appreciate that it comes in Original Red flavor as well, though my black licorice heart is currently committed. —Tina Marshall
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Why Lowest Sugar Content Licorice Is Necessary
I believe lowest sugar content licorice is necessary because it lets me enjoy a sweet treat without feeling guilty about too much sugar. When I choose licorice with less sugar, I can better manage my daily intake and still satisfy my craving for something flavorful. It gives me a way to enjoy candy more mindfully.
I also find that lower-sugar licorice is helpful for my overall health goals. Too much sugar can leave me feeling sluggish, and I try to avoid that. By choosing a version with less sugar, I can make a smarter choice that fits my lifestyle while still enjoying the taste I like.
For me, it is also about balance. I do not want to give up treats completely, but I do want options that support better habits. Lowest sugar content licorice makes that possible, and that is why I see it as a necessary choice.
My Buying Guides on Lowest Sugar Content Licorice
Why I Look for Low-Sugar Licorice
When I shop for licorice, I always check the sugar content first. I want the flavor I enjoy without loading up on extra sugar. Low-sugar licorice can be a better choice if I’m trying to manage my sugar intake, watch my calories, or simply enjoy a treat more mindfully.
What I Check on the Nutrition Label
I start with the nutrition facts panel. I look at:
- Added sugars — this tells me how much sugar was added during processing.
- Total sugars — this includes all sugars in the product.
- Serving size — I make sure I’m comparing the same amount across brands.
- Calories per serving — lower sugar often means fewer calories, but not always.
Ingredients I Prefer
I read the ingredient list carefully. If I want the lowest sugar content, I usually look for products sweetened with alternatives such as:
- Stevia
- Monk fruit
- Erythritol
- Xylitol
I also pay attention to whether licorice uses real licorice root or just licorice flavor, since that can affect both taste and ingredient quality.
Types of Licorice I Consider
I’ve noticed licorice comes in several forms, and some are easier to find in low-sugar versions:
- Soft licorice twists — often sweeter, so I check these closely.
- Chewy licorice bites — sometimes available in reduced-sugar formulas.
- Licorice tea or herbal licorice candy — may have less sugar depending on the brand.
- Sugar-free licorice — usually my first stop when I want the lowest sugar option.
Flavor and Texture Matter to Me Too
I don’t choose low-sugar licorice based on sugar alone. Some sugar-free versions can taste too artificial or have a texture I don’t enjoy. I look for a balance between:
- Sweetness
- Chewiness
- Real licorice flavor
- Aftertaste
If a product has great nutrition but poor taste, I usually won’t buy it again.
Things I Watch Out For
When I buy low-sugar licorice, I keep a few cautions in mind:
- Sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort if I eat too much.
- Licorice root in large amounts may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with high blood pressure.
- “No sugar added” does not always mean very low sugar, so I still read the label.
My Best Buying Tips
Here’s what helps me choose the best low-sugar licorice:
- I compare several brands before buying.
- I check the sugar per serving, not just per package.
- I look for customer reviews about taste and texture.
- I choose trusted brands with clear ingredient labels.
- I buy smaller packs first if I’m trying a new product.
My Final Thoughts
For me, the best lowest sugar content licorice is the one that balances taste, texture, and nutrition. I always read the label, compare sweeteners, and pay attention to serving size before I buy. That way, I can enjoy licorice without getting more sugar than I want.
Final Thoughts
In my view, choosing the lowest sugar content licorice comes down to checking the label carefully and comparing brands, since sugar levels can vary a lot. I’ve found that options with simpler ingredients and less added sugar are usually the best fit if I want to enjoy licorice more mindfully. My takeaway is that a little label reading goes a long way when I’m trying to balance flavor and sweetness.
Author Profile
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Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.
Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding
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