Red Licorice and black licorice may appear side-by-side in the candy aisle, however the distinct characteristics and unique qualities of both make them worlds apart. Each type has its faithful followers, and most licorice enthusiasts claim allegiance to either type.

However, the differences between them raises an interesting question: Does red licorice actually contain licorice?

You may be surprised at the answer.

In most cases, no. Red licorice does not contain licorice root or licorice extract. It comes in a wide variety of fruity flavors (strawberry, cherry, raspberry) that are inspired by those flavors. Many consumers prefer sweeter and fruity flavors compared to traditional black licorice.

Although red licorice tastes different than black licorice, there are additional differences between the two types of licorice that set them apart.

What is Traditional licorice?

Before licorice became well-known as a candy, licorice root had been well-known for its natural sweetness and unique flavor. This unique traditional flavor is commonly referred to as "black" licorice today. While some black licorices also include anise or other flavorings, that contribute to creating its distinct taste.

While the taste is clearly defined, black licorice has a very distinct taste that is perhaps the reason so many people express such strong feelings towards it. Some people adore the taste, while other people will do anything to find fruit-flavored twists instead.

Red Licorice vs. Black Licorice: What's the Difference?

At first glance, red and black licorice may resemble each other visually. After tasting them, however, there is no way to confuse the two.

Taste

This is obviously the largest distinction.

Black licorice contains a bold, distinct taste derived from licorice root. In addition to the typical licorice taste found in many black licorices, anise-like notes could add another dimension to the taste of black licorice in some varieties.

Red licorice is much fruitier.  While Strawberry may be the most common red licorice flavor, most people can imagine the taste of cherry, red raspberry and numerous other fruit-based options.

If you're fond of sweet and fruity candy, then you'll probably favor red licorice. If you enjoy that distinct, unapologetic taste of traditional licorice, then black licorice is almost impossible to substitute.

Color

This part is pretty straightforward. Black licorice is black, while red licorice gets its vibrant red color to match its fruit-inspired candy flavors.

While red and black were once the only two options available, todays licorice twists offer wide variety of flavors and colors. Today Green Apple, Watermelon, Blue Raspberry and various other fruit-based licorices have dramatically changed the appearance of the licorice section of the grocery store.

What Does Red Licorice Taste Like?

Generally speaking, red licorice is flavored sweetly and fruitfully. While the specific flavors depend upon the variety of red licorice you purchase, strawberry, cherry and raspberry are three of the most common flavors. These three flavors provide different variations for consumers. Strawberry provides a typical sweet and fruity taste. Cherry may offer a slightly tart fruit taste. Raspberry offers a slightly sweet and tangy taste. However, not all red licorice is fruit-based. Cinnamon licorice is also offered in the color red that provides a distinctly warm, cinnamon taste and having a bit of "kick" which separates it from the fruit varieties. The diverse array of flavors provided creates a great variety for consumers while maintaining the classic twisted form that consumers associate with licorice candies.

Through the experience of selling licorice at shows we have observed that generally black licorice has a dedicated fan base consisting mainly of older generations who remember black licorice as a classic candy. Consumers younger than this age group tend to gravitate toward the sweeter and fruitier flavors (i.e., strawberry, cherry and red raspberry). As with any product category there are certainly consumers that fall outside of general trends; however, it is always interesting to observe which flavor preferences individual customers exhibit.

Which Is Better: Red or Black Licorice?

We won't be taking sides here.

Black licorice has many devoted fans since there simply isn't another candy that tastes anything like it.

Red licorice has its own group of fans as well, particularly among those who prefer sweet and fruity candies. Our red licorice flavors represent some of our most popular options (we sell more strawberry than any other flavor), and many times consumers buy multiple varieties of our red licorice in combination with one another (as opposed to selecting only one) demonstrating the incredible diversity offered through this candy.

The two varieties are simply a reflection of the variety of options available in terms of flavor.

 So, Red or Black?

Whether you're a fan of the distinct taste of black licorice or the sweeter fruit flavors of red licorice - and by judging from what we see from our own customers, many of you like to try more than one flavor - both can be enjoyed.

The world is big enough for black and red. It all comes down to what flavor you prefer. So, why not have some fun and try a few different flavors that you might not have known where available. You never know, you could have a new favorite flavor soon.