Licorice isn’t just a candy—it’s a global phenomenon with a history that spans cultures and centuries! While Americans may be most familiar with sweet, chewy licorice twists, other parts of the world enjoy licorice in wildly different ways. From salty licorice in Scandinavia to intensely strong licorice pellets in Italy, let’s take a flavorful journey around the world to see how different cultures enjoy this fascinating treat.

Scandinavia: A Love Affair with Salty Licorice

If you think you know licorice, you haven’t met salmiakki, the beloved salty licorice of Scandinavia. This bold and unique candy is made with ammonium chloride, which gives it a salty, slightly medicinal kick.

• Where you’ll find it: Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands

• How it’s enjoyed: Straight-up as a candy, mixed into ice cream, or even infused in liquor

• Pro tip: If you’re trying salmiakki for the first time, brace yourself—it’s an acquired taste!

Italy: The Land of Pure Licorice

In Italy, licorice is serious business. Unlike the soft, chewy treats common in the U.S., Italians prefer their licorice pure, strong, and potent.

• Where you’ll find it: Southern Italy, particularly Calabria, which is famous for producing the world’s best licorice

• How it’s enjoyed: In tiny, ultra-intense pellets or as a fine licorice powder used in cooking and baking

• Pro tip: If you love bold flavors, Italian licorice will be your new best friend!

The Middle East & Asia: Licorice as a Traditional Remedy

In many Middle Eastern and Asian countries, licorice root is not just a treat—it’s medicine. Licorice root is boiled into herbal teas or used in traditional remedies for everything from sore throats to digestive issues.

• Where you’ll find it: Turkey, Iran, China, Japan, and India

• How it’s enjoyed: Brewed into licorice root tea, used in herbal medicine, or mixed into traditional confections

• Pro tip: Licorice root tea has a natural sweetness and is often used to help with respiratory issues—give it a try next time you need a soothing drink!

Australia & New Zealand: Chewy and Sweet

Down under, licorice takes on a softer, sweeter form. Australian licorice is known for being extra chewy and bursting with fruity flavors, making it a favorite for those who love a softer texture.

• Where you’ll find it: Australia and New Zealand

• How it’s enjoyed: As soft, thick twists or bite-sized pieces in flavors like raspberry, mango, and even chocolate-coated varieties

• Pro tip: If you prefer mild, fruity licorice, Australian-style licorice is a must-try!

The U.S. & U.K.: Classic Sweet Licorice

In the United States and the United Kingdom, licorice is mostly sweet and chewy. While black licorice has its fans, red licorice (which technically isn’t licorice at all) has become the mainstream favorite.

• Where you’ll find it: U.S., U.K., and Canada

• How it’s enjoyed: In soft candy ropes, twists, or classic Pontefract Cakes in the U.K.

• Pro tip: Want a taste of nostalgia? Look for old-fashioned black licorice pipes or wheels!

Which Licorice Will You Try?

From the salty bite of Scandinavian licorice to the intense flavors of Italian licorice, there’s a world of licorice waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a lifelong licorice lover or just discovering its diverse flavors, we’ve got fresh, high-quality licorice for every taste.

🔥 Ready for a licorice adventure? Try our delicious flavors today!