Red Twists Review: A Classic Twist on Low Sugar Candy

If you’ve been searching for a low sugar candy that still delivers that chewy, satisfying bite, SmartSweets Red Twists might have caught your eye. As a twist on classic red licorice, these are designed to give you the nostalgic flavor without the sugar spike. In this review, we’ll break down the taste, texture, and overall experience to help you decide if they’re worth adding to your next order.

We’ve spent time with a single pouch of Red Twists, comparing them to traditional licorice and other SmartSweets favorites like Peach Rings and Gummy Worms. Here’s our honest take on how they hold up.

First Impressions: Packaging and Appearance

The single pouch of Red Twists is compact and easy to toss in a bag or lunchbox. The twists themselves are a deep red color, slightly glossy, and look similar to classic red licorice at first glance. They’re not overly sticky, which is a plus if you’re eating them on the go.

Opening the pouch, you get a sweet, fruity aroma that’s reminiscent of cherry or strawberry. It’s inviting without being overpowering, and the twists are uniform in size, making them easy to portion out.

• Pouch size is convenient for single servings or sharing.

Taste Test: Flavor Profile and Sweetness

The flavor of Red Twists is a blend of cherry and raspberry with a hint of vanilla, similar to traditional red licorice but with a lighter sweetness. Because they use sweeteners like stevia and erythritol, the sweetness is present but not cloying. Some tasters noted a slight cooling aftertaste common with sugar alcohols, but it’s subtle and fades quickly.

Compared to regular licorice, the flavor is less intense and a bit more fruity. If you’re expecting the bold, slightly spicy kick of some red licorice brands, you might find these milder. But for a low sugar option, they deliver a satisfyingly sweet taste that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

• Sweetness is balanced, not overly sugary.
• Mild cooling aftertaste from sweeteners is barely noticeable.

Texture and Chew: How Do They Compare to Licorice?

Texture is where Red Twists really shine. They have a soft, chewy consistency that’s similar to Twizzlers but a bit denser. They’re not hard or tough, and they don’t stick to your teeth as much as some licorice brands. The chew is satisfying and holds up well as you eat, making them a great option if you like to savor your candy.

In a side-by-side with traditional licorice, the Red Twists are slightly less elastic and more tender. They also don’t have that greasy mouthfeel that some licorice can leave behind. Overall, the texture is one of the best aspects of these twists.

• Soft, chewy, and not sticky—great for braces or dental work.

Pros and Cons: The Honest Breakdown

Here’s a quick summary of what we loved and what could be improved. On the plus side, Red Twists are low in sugar (only 2g per serving), have a pleasant flavor, and a great texture. They’re also individually wrapped in the pouch, which helps with portion control and freshness.

On the downside, the flavor might be too mild for licorice purists, and the price per pouch is higher than regular candy. Also, if you’re sensitive to sugar alcohols, you might experience digestive discomfort if you eat too many at once. But for most people, these are a solid choice.

• Pros: low sugar, great texture, portable.
• Cons: milder flavor, higher price, potential sugar alcohol sensitivity.

Rating and Final Verdict

We’d give Red Twists a solid 8 out of 10. They excel in texture and sweetness balance, and they’re a great alternative to traditional licorice for anyone watching their sugar intake. They’re not a perfect replica, but they stand on their own as a tasty treat.

If you’re curious about other SmartSweets options, you might also enjoy Sourmelon Bites for a tangy twist or Cinnamon Bears for a spicy kick. But for a classic red licorice vibe, Red Twists are a winner.

• Rating: 8/10 – Highly recommended for low sugar candy fans.

Red Twists from SmartSweets are a great choice if you’re looking for a low sugar candy that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. They’re perfect for satisfying a licorice craving without the sugar crash. Whether you’re new to low sugar candy or a seasoned pro, these twists are worth a try.