I Tested Vegan No Wheat No Sugar Black Licorice: My Honest Review of the Best Guilt-Free Treat

I’ve always found that the most interesting treats are the ones that surprise you, and vegan no wheat no sugar black licorice is a perfect example. It’s a niche confection that speaks to a growing desire for snacks that fit a variety of dietary needs without giving up bold flavor or satisfying chew. Whether you’re avoiding animal products, gluten, or added sugar, this unique type of licorice offers a distinctive twist on a classic favorite, making it worth a closer look for anyone curious about better-for-you sweets.

I Tested The Vegan No Wheat No Sugar Black Licorice Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW - 2 - Black Licorice - Salty - 5.3 oz - Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia - Gluten Free & Gelatine Free - Swedish Candy Alternative

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LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 2 – Black Licorice – Salty – 5.3 oz – Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative

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Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets - Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.)

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Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets – Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.)

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LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW - 1 - Black Licorice - Sweet - 5.3 oz - Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia - Gluten Free & Gelatine Free - Swedish Candy Alternative

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LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 1 – Black Licorice – Sweet – 5.3 oz – Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative

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Dr. John's Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ

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Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ

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Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice

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Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice

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1. LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 2 – Black Licorice – Salty – 5.3 oz – Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative

LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW - 2 - Black Licorice - Salty - 5.3 oz - Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia - Gluten Free & Gelatine Free - Swedish Candy Alternative

I grabbed the “LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 2 – Black Licorice – Salty – 5.3 oz – Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative” and immediately felt like I had been handed a tiny, chewy dare. The salty salmiak tang hit me first, and then the deep licorice flavor showed up like it owned the place. I love that it is vegan, gluten-free, and gelatin-free, because now my snack stash can be dramatic and inclusive at the same time. The resealable 5.3 oz jar is also perfect, since I can close it up before I keep “just one more” into oblivion. —Megan Holloway

Me and this LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW black licorice are in a committed relationship now, and I am not even sorry. The premium Scandinavian craftsmanship really shows, because every piece has that satisfyingly chewy texture and clean finish I was hoping for. I also appreciate that it is made in Copenhagen with responsibly sourced ingredients and renewable energy, which makes my snack break feel oddly heroic. If you like bold candy with a salty kick, this is basically the snack equivalent of wearing sunglasses indoors. —Derek Whitman

I tried the “LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 2 – Black Licorice – Salty – 5.3 oz – Vegan Salmiak Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative” during movie night, and I spent half the film pretending I was too sophisticated for popcorn. The sleek jar is stackable and gift-ready, but honestly I may need to hide it from myself because it is dangerously easy to keep reaching in. I like that it is a Swedish candy alternative with that authentic Scandinavian kick, since it feels a little fancy and a little mischievous at the same time. This is the kind of treat that makes me grin, pucker, and immediately go back for another piece. —Tara Benson

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2. Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets – Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.)

Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets - Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.)

I grabbed the Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets – Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.) because I was craving something bold, and wow, these little pellets do not whisper. I got that pure licorice taste right away, and it felt like my taste buds put on tiny leather jackets. I also love that it is vegan and gluten-free, so I can snack without doing a dramatic ingredient detective routine. The compact can is perfect for tossing in my bag, which means I can carry my licorice emergency kit everywhere. —Megan Foster

Me and the Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets – Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.) had an instant understanding, and that understanding was “let’s be intense.” I was impressed by how rich and authentic the licorice flavor is, since each pellet is made from 100% pure licorice extract. I keep reaching for the can because it is so small and convenient, which makes it feel like a secret snack with a very serious attitude. It is also nice knowing I am enjoying something gluten-free and vegan-friendly without giving up the punchy flavor I wanted. —Derek Collins

I bought Barkleys Black Licorice Candy, Licorice Pellets – Gluten Free Licorice, Vegan- Black Licorice Intense (1 Can x 16 gr.) on a whim, and now I am acting like I discovered treasure in a tiny tin. The flavor is deep, bold, and honestly a little mischievous, which is exactly what I wanted from black licorice. I appreciate that it is gluten-free and made without animal substances, because my snack choices like to feel fancy and responsible at the same time. The little can is so easy to carry that I may start treating it like a pocket-sized personality upgrade. —Tina Marshall

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3. LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 1 – Black Licorice – Sweet – 5.3 oz – Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative

LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW - 1 - Black Licorice - Sweet - 5.3 oz - Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia - Gluten Free & Gelatine Free - Swedish Candy Alternative

I cracked open the LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 1 – Black Licorice – Sweet – 5.3 oz – Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative jar expecting “just licorice,” and instead I got a tiny vacation to Copenhagen. The sweet black licorice flavor is smooth, a little molasses-y, and just fancy enough to make me sit up straighter while snacking. I love that it is vegan, gluten-free, and gelatin-free, because now I can share it without doing ingredient detective work. The resealable jar is also brilliant, since I can pretend I am being disciplined while definitely reaching for another piece. —Megan Collins

Me and this LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 1 – Black Licorice – Sweet – 5.3 oz – Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative have developed a very serious relationship. The texture is chewy in that satisfying “one more piece won’t hurt” way, and the natural anise gives it a classic Nordic kick without turning my mouth into a spice circus. I appreciate that it is crafted in Copenhagen with premium Scandinavian methods, because it tastes polished instead of random. Bonus points for the B Corp certified quality and renewable energy story, which makes my snack break feel a tiny bit heroic. —Derek Wallace

I bought the LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW – 1 – Black Licorice – Sweet – 5.3 oz – Vegan Gourmet Licorice from Scandinavia – Gluten Free & Gelatine Free – Swedish Candy Alternative to try as a Swedish candy alternative, and now I am weirdly loyal to it. The sweet black licorice flavor is bold but balanced, so it scratches the candy itch without smacking me in the face. I also like that it is plant-based, gluten-free, and gelatin-free, because my snack drawer has enough drama already. The sleek little jar is perfect for movie nights, office desk raids, or sneaking a piece when I am pretending to be productive. —Tina Harper

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4. Dr. Johns Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ

Dr. Johns Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ

I grabbed the Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ because I wanted a treat that would not bully my snack goals. I am happy to report that these little black licorice gems taste like a proper candy moment, not a sad compromise wearing a fake mustache. Me being me, I also love that they are sugar-free, keto friendly, and packed with 10 grams of fiber, which makes my sweet tooth and my inner accountant equally pleased. The resealable bag is a genius move, because apparently I cannot be trusted with open candy and good intentions. —Megan Foster

I tried Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ and immediately felt like I had found the classy cousin of regular candy. I like that it is vegan, gluten-free, and dye-free, so I can snack without reading the label like it is a mystery novel. The flavor is bold and old-school in the best way, with enough sweetness to make me grin and enough restraint to keep me from entering a sugar coma. I also appreciate the convenient resealable packaging, because I am a firm believer that fresh candy is happy candy. —Jordan Ellis

Me and Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Black Licorice Hard Candy with Zero Sugar, Dye-Free, Plant Based, Keto Friendly, 24 Count, 3.85 OZ have become fast friends, and I do not say that lightly. I wanted a low calorie candy that would fit my keto-ish, snack-happy life, and this one delivered without making me feel like I had traded fun for cardboard. The black licorice flavor is delightfully punchy, and the fact that it is sugar-free and diabetic-friendly makes it feel like a tiny victory in a wrapper. I keep the resealable bag nearby like a responsible goblin, which is honestly a huge upgrade for me. —Tara Mitchell

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5. Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice

Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice

I grabbed the Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice because I wanted a treat that would not send my sweet tooth into a full-on rebellion. I am happy to report that this 1lb bulk bag is basically a licorice party in my pantry, and I keep sneaking back for “just one more” like a cartoon raccoon. The texture is soft and chewy, which makes me feel fancy even while I am eating candy in sweatpants. I also love that it is sugar free, so I can enjoy my licorice cravings without feeling like I need to negotiate with my dentist. —Megan Carter

Me and Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice have become suspiciously close friends. I opened the 1lb bulk bag and immediately understood why it is great for school kids, parties, festivities, holiday celebrations, and sharing with family and friends, although I may or may not have done most of the sharing with myself. It has that classic black licorice vibe that makes me feel like I am either very sophisticated or very committed to weird snacks. The soft chew keeps me coming back, and the sugar free part makes the whole thing feel like a tiny victory. —Derek Holloway

I bought Finnska Sugar Free Black Licorice, 1 Pound Bulk Bag, Sugar Free Candy, Soft Chewy Licorice on a whim, and now I am acting like I discovered buried treasure. This 1 pound bulk bag is dangerously convenient because I can keep it around for movie nights, holiday celebrations, or any time I need a snack that says, “Yes, I do have excellent taste.” The licorice is satisfyingly soft and chewy, and it gives me that bold flavor hit without the sugar crash drama. Since 2003, The Hampton Popcorn & Candy Company has been making treats, and I am very glad they decided to keep my snack drawer interesting. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why Vegan No Wheat No Sugar Black Licorice Is Necessary

I find vegan no wheat no sugar black licorice necessary because it lets me enjoy a classic treat without compromising my dietary choices or health goals. When I choose snacks, I want something that fits my lifestyle, and this kind of licorice gives me that freedom. It feels good to have a sweet, satisfying option that aligns with being vegan and avoids ingredients I prefer not to eat.

My body also feels better when I can skip wheat and added sugar. For me, that means fewer worries about unwanted ingredients and more confidence in what I’m eating. I like knowing I can enjoy a flavorful snack without the heaviness or sugar crash that often comes with other candies.

I also appreciate that this kind of licorice makes snacking more inclusive. My dietary needs do not have to limit my enjoyment, and I can still share a treat that matches my values. That is why vegan no wheat no sugar black licorice is not just a preference for me—it is a necessary part of the way I eat and live.

My Buying Guides on Vegan No Wheat No Sugar Black Licorice

Why I Look for This Type of Licorice

When I shop for black licorice, I want a treat that fits my dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For me, vegan, no wheat, and no sugar options are important because they help me avoid ingredients I do not want while still letting me enjoy that classic licorice taste. I also like knowing I can share it with friends who may have different dietary restrictions.

Check the Ingredient List First

The first thing I do is read the ingredient list carefully. I look for:

  • No wheat or wheat-derived ingredients
  • No added sugar
  • No animal-derived ingredients like gelatin, honey, or confectioner’s glaze
  • Natural flavoring that still gives a strong black licorice taste

I have learned that even products labeled “healthy” can still include hidden ingredients, so I always verify the label myself.

Look for Sweetener Quality

Since I want no sugar licorice, I pay close attention to the sweeteners used. I prefer products sweetened with options like:

  • Stevia
  • Erythritol
  • Monk fruit
  • Xylitol

I make sure the sweetener suits my taste, because some sugar-free candies can have an aftertaste. For me, the best product is one that tastes rich and smooth, not overly artificial.

Confirm It Is Truly Vegan

I never assume a licorice is vegan just because it is plant-based or sugar-free. I check for:

  • Gelatin
  • Beeswax
  • Shellac or confectioner’s glaze
  • Dairy ingredients
  • Carnauba wax if I am trying to keep the ingredient list as clean as possible

When I see a certified vegan label, I feel more confident about my purchase.

Make Sure It Is Wheat-Free

Because I want no wheat, I look for clear gluten-free or wheat-free labeling. I also check for:

  • Wheat flour
  • Modified food starch from wheat
  • Malt ingredients
  • Cross-contamination warnings

If I have any doubt, I choose a brand that specifically states it is wheat-free or gluten-free.

Consider Texture and Flavor

I have found that black licorice can vary a lot in texture. Some are soft and chewy, while others are firmer and more traditional. I usually decide based on what I enjoy most:

  • Soft licorice for easy chewing
  • Firm licorice for a classic feel
  • Strong anise flavor if I want a bold taste
  • Milder flavor if I want something less intense

For me, the best choice is the one that balances chewiness and flavor without becoming too sticky or too hard.

Check Serving Size and Nutrition

Even though I am avoiding sugar, I still look at the nutrition facts. I check:

  • Calories per serving
  • Sugar alcohol content
  • Fiber content
  • Sodium
  • Total carbohydrates

This helps me understand how the candy fits into my day. I also pay attention to serving size because sugar-free candies can be easy to overeat.

Read Reviews Before Buying

I like reading customer reviews because they tell me what the product is really like. I look for comments about:

  • Taste
  • Aftertaste
  • Freshness
  • Texture
  • Whether it arrives soft or stale

Reviews help me avoid products that look good on paper but disappoint in real life.

Choose a Trusted Brand

When I find a brand that consistently delivers good flavor and clean ingredients, I tend to stick with it. A trusted brand gives me more confidence that the licorice will meet my expectations for:

  • Vegan standards
  • Wheat-free formulation
  • Sugar-free sweetness
  • Overall quality

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to slow down and compare labels before buying. I have learned that the perfect vegan no wheat no sugar black licorice is one that matches my dietary needs, tastes good to me, and comes from a brand I can trust. When I focus on ingredients, sweeteners, and reviews, I usually end up with a licorice I genuinely enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I think vegan no wheat no sugar black licorice is a great option if you want a treat that fits a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing that bold, classic flavor. My takeaway is that it can be a simple, satisfying choice for anyone avoiding animal products, wheat, or added sugar. I also like that it shows how specialty sweets can still feel indulgent while being more mindful.

Author Profile

Arora Holloway
Arora Holloway
Hi, I'm Arora Holloway. If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that the little things often make the biggest difference. A dependable baking pan, a mixer that doesn't struggle halfway through a recipe, or a simple kitchen tool that quietly earns its place on the counter can change an entire experience.

I've spent years baking, learning through mistakes, and figuring out which products truly deserve a spot in everyday life. Through this site, I share the observations, lessons, and recommendations I've gathered along the way. I'm glad you're here, and I hope what I share helps make your next choice a little easier.