Licorice has always been an American favorite, in savory and sweet dishes. While in the past, the candy existed in only a black version, now licorice candies can be found in a variety of flavors, shapes and sizes. One of the incarnations is Red Vines.
History of Red Vines
The American Licorice Company, makers of Red Vines, was founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1914. The company's first product was Black Licorice Vines but by 1920, the company had expanded to include Classic Raspberry Vines. In 1952, the candy was renamed Red Vines and six years later, Red Vines Original Twists was packaged in its now well-known trays. In 1983 Red Vines made their debut in knob-top jars. By 2002, Red Vines had expanded to include Fruit Vines in Purple Grape, Green Watermelon, and Blue Raspberry. And in 2008, almost 100 years after the candy was invented, Red Vines aired its first TV advertisement.
History of Licorice
Licorice has been used for over 3000 years, by everyone from King Tut to Julius Ceasar. The root has also been used in both Eastern and Western medicines to treat peptic ulcers, sore throats and coughs. While those claims remain unproven, licorice and its extracts are mainly used for candies and desserts.
Ingredients in Red Vines
The American Licorice Red Vines Original Twists are a certified kosher product and preservative free. The candies are also fat free and low sodium. As listed on the ingredient list, Red Vines contain: corn Syrup, citric Acid, artificial Flavor, red 40. The product does contain wheat.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of Red Vines is seven pieces or about 40g. A serving has 140 calories, 0 g of fat, saturated fat or trans fat, 60 g of sodium or 3 percent recommended daily value, 33 g total carbohydrates or 12 percent DV, 16 g of sugar and 1 g of protein. The candy does is not a significant source of vitamins A or C, calcium or Iron.
All Natural Licorice
The American Licorice Company has now started producing an all-natural version of its licorice candies under the brand Natural Vines. The licorice contains no corn syrup, trans fat or soy, is cholesterol free, vegan and made in a nut free facility. The Natural Vines may be an alternative for those on restricted diets or those with allergies.
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