Licorice is one of those candies that you either love or love to debate. But no matter where you stand, there’s no denying that licorice has an incredibly rich and fascinating history. From ancient civilizations to modern candy shelves, licorice has traveled through time, offering both medicinal benefits and sweet indulgence. Buckle up, because these fun facts are about to make you see licorice in a whole new light!

1. King Tut Took Licorice to the Afterlife

Licorice was considered so valuable in ancient Egypt that it was found buried with King Tutankhamun in his tomb! The Egyptians believed licorice root had powerful medicinal properties and could be used in teas to soothe sore throats and aid digestion. If it was good enough for a Pharaoh, it’s definitely worth a taste!

2. Napoleon Bonaparte Was Addicted to Licorice

One of history’s most legendary military leaders, Napoleon Bonaparte, was reportedly obsessed with licorice. He consumed so much of it that his teeth were said to have turned black! Perhaps he believed licorice would give him an edge on the battlefield. Today, you can enjoy fresh licorice without the dental side effects—just be sure to brush!

3. The World’s Longest Licorice Twist Was Over 1,200 Feet!

Licorice lovers, prepare to be amazed! The longest licorice twist ever created stretched a jaw-dropping 1,200 feet—that’s longer than three football fields! Imagine trying to take a bite out of that masterpiece. Now, while we can’t offer a licorice rope quite that long, we do guarantee our licorice is just as delicious!

4. Licorice Was Once Used to Flavor Tobacco

Back in the 1800s, licorice wasn’t just a candy—it was a tobacco flavoring! Many early tobacco products used licorice root to add a sweet and slightly earthy flavor. Fortunately, today’s licorice is made for pure enjoyment without any smoky surprises.

5. Scandinavians Love Their Salty Licorice

Think you know licorice? Think again! In Scandinavia, licorice takes on a whole new identity—it’s salty! Salty licorice, also known as salmiakki, is made with ammonium chloride, giving it a bold, salty kick that many non-Scandinavians find surprising (or shocking). If you’re an adventurous foodie, salty licorice might just be your next obsession!

6. Licorice Is a Plant!

Believe it or not, licorice candy comes from an actual plant! The Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, to be exact. The sweet root is used to create the deep, earthy flavors found in black licorice. Meanwhile, red licorice? It’s mostly a fruity imposter—it doesn’t actually contain licorice root at all!

7. Red Licorice Isn’t Really Licorice

Speaking of imposters, did you know that red licorice isn’t technically licorice? Unlike black licorice, which gets its signature taste from licorice root extract, red licorice is usually made with fruit flavors like cherry, strawberry, or raspberry. It’s still delicious—but if you’re after the real licorice experience, go black!

8. Some Licorice Candies Have Been Banned!

Licorice is tasty, but some versions of it have caused quite a stir. Certain licorice candies have been banned in various countries due to their strong laxative effects. That’s right—too much of a good thing can have some unexpected consequences! But don’t worry, as long as you enjoy licorice in moderation, you’ll be just fine!

9. Black Licorice Was Once a Common Cough Remedy

Before cough syrups, people turned to licorice to soothe sore throats and coughs. The natural compounds found in licorice root have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making it a go-to remedy for centuries. While today’s licorice candies are more about flavor than function, you can still find licorice root tea for a natural throat-soothing experience.

10. Licorice Ice Cream Exists (And It’s Amazing!)

Ice cream lovers, rejoice! Licorice ice cream is a real (and delicious) thing, particularly popular in Scandinavia and Northern Europe. The smooth, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the bold, slightly sweet, and herbal taste of licorice. If you ever get the chance to try it, don’t hesitate!

Try Fresh, Delicious Licorice Today!

Now that you’re a licorice expert, it’s time to taste the best licorice around! At Fresh is the Best Licorice, we take pride in crafting soft, chewy, and flavor-packed licorice that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you love classic black licorice, fruity red twists, or something totally unique, we’ve got the perfect treat waiting for you.

🔥 Ready to experience licorice like never before? Grab a bag (or two) and taste the difference today!