PickSmartly Review

Best Panda Licorice Candy in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
9
Reviews Analyzed
1,799
Brands Ranked
3
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For enthusiasts of classic confectionery, panda licorice candy represents a specific niche of chewy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying treats. Unlike mass-produced gummy candies that rely heavily on synthetic fruit acids, true panda-style licorice focuses on the delicate balance between botanical extracts and a smooth, pliable texture. Whether you are looking for the traditional deep black varieties or the creamy, dual-layered white and black twists, selecting the right batch requires an understanding of ingredient quality and texture profiles. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of licorice selection so you can find a snack that satisfies your cravings without the chalky or overly medicinal aftertaste found in lower-quality alternatives.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Panda Licorice Candy

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Panda All Natural Soft Licorice, 7 Ounce (Pack of 2)

Panda All Natural Soft Licorice Two Pack

4.6 (1,336 ratings)
PANDA 4.80 X 3.60 X 3.30 Inches 0.44 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
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  • Item Package Length: 5.842cm
  • Item Package Width: 15.24cm
  • Item Package Height: 20.32cm
  • Item Package Weight: 0.408kg
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
E-Health & Beauty 9.89 Yes Yes Yes

Panda All Natural Soft Licorice delivers a surprisingly clean snacking experience through its gentle, all-natural ingredients. This two-pack bundle provides a generous amount of candy for those who prefer a softer texture over the tougher, traditional licorice varieties. At roughly 0.4kg for the pair, the package feels substantial enough to share or keep as a pantry staple. The dimensions are quite compact, making these bags easy to tuck into a snack drawer or a lunchbox without taking up excessive space. It is a reliable, straightforward option for anyone seeking a more natural approach to their sweet cravings without sacrificing that classic licorice flavor profile.

What We Like
All natural ingredients
Soft texture
Two pack bundle
Compact packaging

Panda All Natural Black Soft Licorice, with Omegapak Starlight Mints, Bundle of 3 Bags, 200g or 7 Oz. Each

Omegapak Panda All Natural Black Soft Licorice Bundle

OMEGAPAK 0.44 Pounds

Reviews for OMEGAPAK (PM Score)

9.0 PM Score
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  • CONVENIENT BUNDLE OF 3 PACKS: Panda licorice
  • Panda made from all natural ingredients soft licorice. The real taste of licorice. Fat free.
  • No preservatives. No artificial colors. No artificial flavors. Made with real licorice root extract.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
OmegaUS 9.94 Yes Yes Yes

Purists who demand the authentic, earthy punch of real licorice root will find their holy grail in this Panda soft licorice bundle. Unlike most mass-produced candies that rely on synthetic dyes and chemical aftertastes, these treats lean heavily into all-natural ingredients to deliver a genuine flavor profile. You won't find any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives hiding in these bags, making them a much cleaner choice for your snack pantry. The texture is impressively soft, avoiding that waxy or overly hard consistency found in inferior brands. Because this bundle includes three 200g bags, you can stock up on a fat-free snack that actually tastes like the real thing without worrying about running out too quickly.

What We Like
Real licorice root
All natural ingredients
No artificial colors
Fat free
Three bag bundle

Panda, Raspberry Chew, 7 oz

Panda Raspberry Chew Natural Licorice

PANDA 355008 3.30 X 1.90 X 4.90 Inches 0.45 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

8.8 PM Score
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  • Panda Licorice is one of the leading all natural confection items in the US
  • Panda products are imported from Finland and packaged specifically to keep the product soft and fresh
  • Panda is a success around the world thanks to its freshness and unique consistency - it's real licorice, unlike most licorice products found in the grocery market which are artificially flavored
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Meadow Ridge Coffee Co 9.90 Yes Yes Yes

True licorice enthusiasts will find themselves snubbing every artificial, flavor-washed candy in the aisle once they taste these Panda Raspberry Chews. Unlike the mass-produced grocery store options that rely on synthetic essences, this Finnish import delivers the authentic, deep flavor profile you actually expect from real licorice. I was particularly impressed by the texture. Because these are imported from Finland and packaged with a focus on moisture retention, they arrive incredibly soft and fresh rather than stale or rubbery. For a 7 oz bag, you are paying for a premium, all-natural confection that maintains a unique consistency that is hard to find elsewhere in the US market.

What We Like
All natural ingredients
Authentic Finnish licorice
Consistently soft texture
Real fruit flavor
Freshness-focused packaging

Panda ® | Natural Soft Original Licorice | Pure Panda Black Licorice Candy Made with Only Four Natural Ingredients | Non-GMO Project verified | Vegan...

Panda Natural Soft Original Black Licorice Bars

4.6 (84 ratings)
PANDA 0.07 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

8.8 PM Score
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  • PANDA NATURAL BLACK LICORICE IS A CLASSIC - Always right from the first bite, it’s exactly how licorice should be – soft, mouth-watering and deliciously tasty. Panda Licorice has provided the real taste of premium licorice since 1927. Great on-the-go snack size to satisfy your sweeth tooth.
  • ONLY FOUR INGREDIENTS - Our licorice black licorice candy is the purest you can find, and we’re proud of it. It’s made of only four simple ingredients. Molasses, Wheat flour, Liquorice root extract and Aniseed oil. Kosher certified and Non-GMO Project verified.
  • RICH IN FLAVOR AND TASTE - The star of our licorice candy is licorice root extract, which gives it its distinctive dark color and delicious, complex flavor.
  • MADE WITH NATURAL COLORS AND FLAVORS - Without any artificial nasty ingredients. Free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup.
  • DELICIOUSLY SOFT LICORICE - The traditional slow-cooking method of making licorice give it the distinctive chewy softness. Fat free vegan snacks made in Finland.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
AmericAD 5.84 No No No

Panda Natural Soft Original Licorice is a masterclass in traditional confectionery that delivers an authentic, old-school flavor profile that is increasingly hard to find in modern snacks. Since 1927, this brand has perfected a slow-cooking method that results in a remarkably soft, chewy texture rather than the toughness often associated with cheaper brands. What truly sets these bars apart is the commitment to purity. You are getting a clean label consisting of only four natural ingredients, including real licorice root extract and aniseed oil. There is no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial nonsense here, just a rich, complex taste that feels premium. These individual 32g bars are the perfect size for a quick, vegan-friendly craving, making them a reliable staple for any true licorice enthusiast.

What We Like
Four natural ingredients
Authentic slow-cooked softness
Real licorice root
Vegan and fat-free
Non-GMO Project verified

Panda All Natural Black Licorice, 7 oz Bags in a BlackTie Box (Pack of 2)

Black Tie Mercantile Panda All Natural Black Licorice

4.6 (81 ratings)
BLACK TIE MERCANTILE 8.00 X 6.00 X 3.50 Inches 0.75 Pounds
  • Includes two 7 oz bags of Panda All Natural Black Licorice
  • Fat Free, Vegan, All Natural, No Artificial Colors, No Artificial Flavors, No Preservatives
  • KV Kosher Pareve and Halal
  • Product of Finland
  • In a BlackTie Box
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

Licorice purists who demand authentic, old-world flavor without the chemical aftertaste of mass-produced candy need to clear their pantry for this Finnish import. I was immediately struck by the clean ingredient list. Since it uses no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, the taste feels remarkably honest and grounded. The two 7 oz bags provide a generous supply for those of us who can't stop at just one piece, and the BlackTie Box presentation makes it feel like a premium treat rather than a standard grocery grab. It is rare to find a snack that hits the trifecta of being vegan, fat-free, and Kosher Pareve while still delivering that deep, satisfying anise punch. This is a sophisticated choice for anyone who values all-natural snacking.

What We Like
All natural ingredients
Authentic Finnish licorice
Vegan and fat-free
Kosher Pareve and Halal
No artificial additives

Panda ® | Natural Soft Original Licorice | Pure Panda Black Licorice Candy Made with Only Four Natural Ingredients | Non-GMO Project verified | Vegan...

Panda Natural Soft Original Black Licorice

PANDA 0.44 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

7.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PANDA NATURAL BLACK LICORICE IS A CLASSIC - Always right from the first bite, it’s exactly how licorice should be – soft, mouth-watering and deliciously tasty. Panda Licorice has provided the real taste of premium licorice since 1927.
  • ONLY FOUR INGREDIENTS - Our black licorice candy is the purest you can find, and we’re proud of it. It’s made of only four simple ingredients. Molasses, Wheat flour, Liquorice root extract and Aniseed oil. Kosher certified and Non-GMO Project verified.
  • RICH IN FLAVOR AND TASTE - The star of our licorice candy is licorice root extract, which gives it its distinctive dark colour and delicious, complex flavor.
  • MADE WITH NATURAL COLORS AND FLAVORS - Without any artificial nasty ingredients. Free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup.
  • DELICIOUSLY SOFT LICORICE - The traditional slow-cooking method of making licorice give it the distinctive chewy softness. Resealable bag helps keep licorice fresh and tasty. Fat free vegan snacks made in Finland.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ShippedFast 9.98 Yes Yes Yes

After decades of perfecting their craft, Panda has managed to capture the true essence of traditional licorice in a way that feels remarkably pure. This isn't your typical candy loaded with synthetic additives. Instead, it relies on just four simple ingredients like molasses and liquorice root extract to deliver that deep, complex flavor. The texture is where this Finnish classic really shines, offering a distinctive chewy softness achieved through a traditional slow-cooking process. Because it is made without high-fructose corn syrup or artificial colors, you get a clean, mouth-watering experience that honors the brand's heritage dating back to 1927. The resealable bags are a thoughtful touch, ensuring that the softness stays intact from the first bite to the last.

What We Like
Four natural ingredients
Traditional slow-cooked texture
Real liquorice root extract
Vegan and fat free
Resealable freshness bags

Panda Strawberry Chews - 7 oz

Panda Strawberry Chews Fruit Candy

PANDA 0.45 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

5.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Vegan
  • Kosher
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Beaute Shoppe 9.94 Yes Yes Yes

Panda Strawberry Chews deliver a punch of fruit flavor that stands out in the crowded gummy market. These 7 oz bags are a dream for anyone seeking a snack that aligns with specific dietary needs without sacrificing texture or taste. Because they are entirely vegan and Kos Kosher, you can indulge in that classic chewy satisfaction without worrying about animal-derived ingredients. The strawberry profile feels bright and authentic rather than overly medicinal, making them easy to snack on throughout the day. At just under ten dollars, they offer a reliable, high-quality treat for those who prioritize inclusive snacking options that don't skimp on the fun factor.

What We Like
Vegan friendly
Kosher certified
Strawberry flavor
Chewy texture

Panda Natural Soft Black Licorice Stick, Vegan, Fat Free, Kosher, Non-GMO, 1.1 Oz (Pack of 20)

Panda Natural Soft Black Licorice Sticks

PANDA 0.07 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
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  • Panda Natural Soft Black Licorice Stick, Vegan, Fat Free, Kosher, Non-GMO, 1.1 Oz (Pack of 20)
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume that finding a truly clean candy option means sacrificing that classic, chewy texture we all crave. Panda Natural Soft Black Licorice Sticks defy that expectation by delivering a satisfyingly soft bite without the heavy additives found in mainstream sweets. I was particularly impressed by how well they maintain their integrity as a vegan and fat-free snack. Since these come in a convenient pack of 20, they are perfect for keeping in a desk drawer or a pantry for whenever that specific licorice craving hits. It is rare to find a treat that checks the boxes for being non-GMO and Kosher while still feeling like an indulgent snack rather than a health food compromise.

What We Like
Soft chewy texture
Vegan friendly
Fat free
Non-GMO ingredients
Kosher certified

Panda ® | Natural Soft Raspberry Licorice | Licorice Candy Made with Natural Colors and Flavors | Non-GMO Project verified | Vegan & Fat Free | 200 G...

Panda Natural Soft Raspberry Licorice Candy

PANDA 0.44 Pounds

Reviews for PANDA (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PANDA NATURAL LICORICE IS A CLASSIC - Always right from the first bite, it’s exactly how licorice should be – soft, mouth-watering and deliciously tasty. Panda licorice has provided the real taste of premium licorice since 1927
  • AS PURE AS IT GETS - Our licorice candy is the purest you can find, and we’re proud of it. Kosher certified and Non-GMO Project verified.
  • MADE WITH NATURAL COLORS AND FLAVORS - Without any artificial nasty ingredients. Free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup.
  • BURSTING WITH FLAVOR - The high-quality, natural ingredients of our licorice candy set us apart from all other licorice sweets out there. Panda Natural Raspberry Licorice contains natural raspberry puree.
  • DELICIOUSLY SOFT LICORICE - The traditional slow-cooking method of making licorice give it the distinctive chewy softness. Resealable bag helps keep licorice fresh and tasty. Fat free vegan snacks made in Finland.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
No No No

Finding a gummy snack that avoids the chemical aftertaste of artificial dyes and high-fructose corn syrup is a constant struggle for mindful snackers. Panda Natural Raspberry Licorice solves this by leaning into traditional Finnish craftsmanship, using real raspberry puree and natural flavors to deliver a punch of fruitiness. These aren't your typical hard, waxy candies. The slow-cooking method gives them a distinctive, mouth-watering softness that feels premium from the very first bite. Since they are Non-GMO Project verified, vegan, and fat-free, you can enjoy them without the guilt of artificial preservatives. The resealable bags are a smart touch for maintaining that perfect chewy texture, making this a reliable pantry staple for anyone craving authentic, high-quality sweets.

What We Like
Real raspberry puree
Traditional slow-cooked softness
Natural colors and flavors
Non-GMO Project verified
Resealable freshness bags
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best panda licorice candy

A Guide to Selecting the Best panda licorice candy

Understanding the Flavor Profile: Black vs. Dual-Tone

The first decision any licorice lover must make is the intensity of the flavor. Traditional black licorice relies on the essence of star anise or real licorice root, providing a complex, slightly bitter, and earthy profile. If you prefer a bold, unapologetic punch, look for varieties where the dark component is the primary focus. However, many panda-style candies offer a 'dual-tone' or 'twined' experience. These feature a creamy, vanilla-scented white strand wrapped around the dark licorice. This combination is ideal for those who find pure black licorice too intense, as the sweetness of the white strand acts as a buffer, creating a more balanced, mellow snacking experience.

Texture and Chewability

Texture is perhaps the most critical factor in a high-quality licorice purchase. There is a fine line between 'chewy' and 'tough.' A premium panda licorice should offer a soft, yielding bite that doesn't require excessive jaw work. Avoid products that list high amounts of hardeners or those that feel rubbery. Instead, look for descriptions that suggest a 'supple' or 'smooth' mouthfeel. High-quality licorice should melt slightly as you chew, allowing the botanical flavors to coat the palate. If the candy feels waxy or leaves a film on your teeth, it is likely a sign of inferior starch usage or excessive artificial binders.

Ingredient Integrity and Natural Extracts

To ensure you are getting a gourmet experience rather than a sugary imitation, scrutinize the ingredient list. The best licorice candies utilize real licorice root extract and star anise oil. These natural components provide a depth of flavor that artificial flavorings simply cannot replicate. Be wary of products that rely heavily on high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes to achieve their color. While some coloring is expected, a product that leans too heavily on synthetic additives often results in a chemical aftertaste that masks the subtle notes of the licorice root. For the most authentic experience, prioritize brands that emphasize botanical origins.

Packaging and Freshness Factors

Licorice is highly susceptible to environmental factors. It can either harden into bricks or become unpleasantly sticky if exposed to humidity. When shopping, consider the packaging type. Resealable pouches are superior to open-top bags, as they allow you to control the exposure to air. If you are purchasing larger quantities for sharing or long-term storage, ensure the packaging is airtight and opaque to protect the candy from light degradation, which can affect both the color and the aromatic oils within the candy. A fresh batch should have a distinct, pleasant aroma the moment the seal is broken.

Summary Recommendation Logic

When making your final selection, use this logic: If you are a purist, seek out high-concentration black licorice with minimal additives. If you are a casual snacker, opt for the dual-tone white and black twists for a more approachable sweetness. Regardless of your preference, always prioritize a soft, supple texture and the presence of real botanical extracts to ensure a premium confectionery experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Panda Licorice Candy before you buy.

Panda licorice is typically a softer, chewier confection that balances the strong anise flavor with a sweeter, more approachable profile compared to the intense, medicinal taste of traditional hard black licorice.

While many licorice varieties use wheat starch, you should always check the specific ingredient label on the packaging, as formulations can vary between different batches and regional recipes.

The best panda licorice should be supple and easy to bite through, avoiding a grainy or overly waxy consistency that can stick uncomfortably to your teeth.

This depends entirely on the brand. Some use gelatin for texture, while others rely on starch or pectin. Always look for a vegan certification on the wrapper if this is a requirement.

To maintain optimal softness, store your candy in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Standard panda licorice is a sugar-based confection and does not typically contain caffeine, unlike certain energy-infused gummy candies.

Yes, many enthusiasts use the soft, flexible ropes or twists to decorate cupcakes, themed cakes, or to incorporate into homemade candy bark.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Panda Licorice Candy

1,799 Reviews Analyzed
9 Products Evaluated
6.4 Avg PM Score
3 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Panda Licorice Candy Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Panda 7 (77.8%)
  2. 02 Black Tie Mercantile 1 (11.1%)
  3. 03 Omegapak 1 (11.1%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 1,799 reviews on Panda Licorice Candy, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the candy & chocolate. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Panda Licorice Candy priced around $17.10.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 9 Panda Licorice Candy for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right candy Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Panda Licorice Candy to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.