Twizzlers are a classic licorice candy that have been around for decades. With their distinctive twisted shape and fruity flavor, Twizzlers are a popular treat for both kids and adults alike. However, like many candies, Twizzlers are high in sugar. This leads many people to wonder: are there sugar free versions of Twizzlers available?
Quick answer: Yes, there are sugar free versions of Twizzlers called Twizzlers Sugar Free. They are sweetened with maltitol syrup instead of sugar and contain no high fructose corn syrup.
What are Twizzlers?
Twizzlers are a licorice-flavored candy produced by The Hershey Company. They have a distinctive twisted rope shape and come in a variety of fruity flavors like strawberry, cherry, raspberry, and more.
The original Twizzlers candy was first produced in 1929 by the Young and Smylie company. It was originally called the Twizzler and was formulated using egg whites. In the 1970s, production of Twizzlers was taken over by Hershey.
Here are some key facts about standard Twizzlers candy:
- Made from wheat flour, sugar, corn syrup, and vegetable oil
- Each 1 ounce serving contains 140 calories and 30 grams of carbohydrates
- Sweetened with high fructose corn syrup
- Contain no fat, protein or fiber
- Come in a variety of fruity flavors like strawberry, cherry, raspberry, lemon, and more
- Have a distinctive chewy texture
So in their classic form, Twizzlers are essentially a chewy, licorice-flavored candy rope made primarily from refined carbs and sugar. This high sugar content is what leads some people to look for sugar-free alternatives.
What are sugar free Twizzlers?
Sugar free Twizzlers, also referred to as Twizzlers Sugar Free, are a modified version of the classic candy that contain no sugar. They are sweetened instead with the sugar alcohol maltitol syrup.
Here are some key facts about sugar free Twizzlers:
- Made with maltitol syrup instead of sugar
- Contain 90% less carbohydrates than regular Twizzlers
- Each 1 ounce serving contains just 8 grams of net carbs
- Sweetened with maltitol which has a similar taste and texture to sugar
- Contain no high fructose corn syrup
- Come in popular flavors like strawberry, cherry, and lemon
- Have the same twisted rope shape and chewy texture as original Twizzlers
So in summary, the main difference between regular Twizzlers and sugar free Twizzlers is the use of the sugar alcohol maltitol instead of sugar and high fructose corn syrup. This gives sugar free Twizzlers 90% fewer carbohydrates while maintaining a comparable sweet flavor and texture.
Where to buy sugar free Twizzlers
Sugar free Twizzlers can be found at many major grocery stores, candy shops, and online retailers. Here are some of the best places to buy them:
- Grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, Publix, and Albertsons often carry them in the candy aisle.
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Wawa, and Circle K sometimes have them near the register.
- Candy specialty shops like IT’SUGAR and Rocket Fizz frequently sell them.
- Online at Amazon, Walmart.com, Hersheys.com, and other major retailers.
- Some movie theaters and amusement parks sell them at concession stands.
- International food markets sometimes carry off-brand sugar free licorice ropes.
The most reliable places to find name brand Twizzlers Sugar Free are large supermarket chains, candy shops, and online. Be sure to check the ingredient label to confirm they are sugar free and sweetened with maltitol.
The sugar free version often won’t be displayed right next to the regular Twizzlers. You’ll most likely find them in a section dedicated to no sugar added, diabetic friendly, or low carb candies. So be sure to browse these sections carefully when looking for sugar free Twizzlers.
Twizzlers Sugar Free nutrition facts
Here is a comparison of the nutrition facts for Twizzlers Sugar Free versus original Twizzlers:
| Nutrition Facts | Twizzlers Sugar Free (1oz) | Original Twizzlers (1oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 80 | 140 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8g | 30g |
| Sugar | 0g | 21g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g |
| Sugar Alcohols | 7g | 0g |
| Net Carbs | 1g | 30g |
As you can see, Twizzlers Sugar Free contain 90% fewer net carbohydrates than the original. They have 0 grams of sugar compared to 21 grams in regular Twizzlers.
The 7 grams of sugar alcohols per serving is what provides the sweetness in the absence of sugar. While sugar alcohols are lower calorie than sugar, they can still have a mild glycemic impact in sensitive individuals.
So in terms of calories and carbohydrates, Twizzlers Sugar Free is clearly the lower carb choice. Just be aware that sugar alcohols may affect people differently in terms of digestion and blood sugar response.
Twizzlers Sugar Free reviews
Most people who try Twizzlers Sugar Free say they have remarkably similar taste and texture as the original candy. Here are some common reviews:
- They taste very close to the real thing with only a slightly different aftertaste.
- The texture is perfectly chewy and ropey just like regular Twizzlers.
- They satisfy cravings for a sweet licorice treat.
- Kids and adults alike enjoy the flavor.
- They are a great sugar free substitute for Twizzler lovers.
- The maltitol doesn’t cause digestive issues for most people.
- They are a nice treat for diabetics when watching sugar intake.
Some people say they can detect a slight difference from the original, describing the sugar free version as less sweet with a mild aftertaste from the maltitol. But overall, most reviews are very positive and say sugar free Twizzlers are a tasty duplicate.
Of course personal taste can vary a lot from one person to the next. We all have a unique sensitivity to sugar substitutes. Your best bet is to try a sample pack and see for yourself if you like the taste.
Are there downsides to sugar free Twizzlers?
While sugar free Twizzlers are a smart choice for limiting sugar, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Digestive effects – Sugar alcohols like maltitol may cause gas, bloating or diarrhea in some people when eaten in excess.
- Spikes blood sugar – Though not as much as regular sugar, maltitol can cause a mild glycemic response.
- Not calorie free – Sugar free Twizzlers still provide 80 calories per serving, so don’t assume they are a low calorie treat.
- Can trigger cravings – The sweet taste may increase desire for more sugary foods.
- Processed ingredients – Made with artificial flavors, corn syrup solids, and hydrogenated starch.
While sugar free Twizzlers are a better option than original Twizzlers for people watching carbohydrates, they are still a highly processed candy without nutrients. Enjoy them in moderation as an occasional treat if you have a licorice candy craving.
Other sugar free licorice options
If you can’t find sugar free Twizzlers or want to explore some alternatives, here are a few other great options for sugar free and low carb licorice candy:
| Brand | Details |
|---|---|
| Kenny’s Candy | Sugar Free Red Twists use maltitol and xylitol. 3g net carbs per serving. |
| Ricola | Sugar Free Herb Drops use maltitol. 9g net carbs per serving. |
| Darrell Lea | No Added Sugar Soft Eating Liquorice uses stevia. 2g net carbs per serving. |
| Judy’s Candy Company | Sugar Free Licorice Twists use sorbitol. 2g net carbs per serving. |
| Candy Tree | Sugar Free Red Vines made with maltitol. 4g net carbs per serving. |
As you can see, there are quite a few different sugar free licorice options on the market that use various sweeteners like maltitol, stevia, xylitol, and sorbitol. Nutrition info varies slightly by brand.
Can you make homemade sugar free Twizzlers?
It is possible to create homemade sugar free Twizzlers using some simple ingredients and a little cooking know-how. Here is a basic recipe to make your own:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated erythritol sweetener
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1/4 teaspoon cherry or strawberry flavor oil
- Red food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the erythritol, water, molasses, flavor oil and food coloring over medium heat. Whisk together and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, remove from heat. Let cool slightly then add xanthan gum and whisk until well combined to thicken.
- Pour onto a parchment lined baking sheet into rope shapes. Let fully cool and harden for at least an hour.
- Once hardened, remove from parchment and store in an airtight container. Homemade sugar free Twizzlers will keep for 1-2 weeks.
The key ingredient in this recipe is erythritol, a natural sugar alcohol that provides sweetness without spiking blood sugar. Combined with sugar free molasses and flavor oils, it makes a great licorice candy replica.
The possibilities are endless when making your own sugar free candy at home. You can create any shape or flavor your imagination desires!
Conclusion
In summary, Twizzlers Sugar Free offer a delicious low carb alternative to satisfy licorice cravings. Made with maltitol instead of sugar, they replicate the unique chewy texture and fruity taste of Twizzlers without all the carbohydrates.
While not completely free of calories or potential side effects, sugar free Twizzlers are a smart swap for reducing sugar intake. They can be enjoyed in moderation by those looking for candy options that better fit into a diabetic or low carb diet.
Finding authentic Twizzlers Sugar Free for sale isn’t always easy, but they can often be found in large supermarkets and online. For maximum freshness and custom flavors, whipping up your own at home is an option too.
So for any Twizzlers fans searching for a sugar free way to get your red licorice fix, Twizzlers Sugar Free delivers. They provide 90% fewer carbs than the original candy so you can keep enjoying those delicious twisted ropes even on a low carb diet.
