Salty liquorice

Salty Liquorice

Salty liquorice, also known as salmiak or salmiakki, is a variety of liquorice flavoured with ammonium chloride, giving it a distinctive salty taste. This confectionery is popular in the Nordic countries, the Netherlands, and Northern Germany.

History

The history of salty liquorice is intertwined with the history of liquorice root usage in medicine. The root has been used for its health benefits for centuries, and the addition of ammonium chloride was initially a medicinal treatment for coughs and colds.

Production

The production of salty liquorice involves the combination of liquorice root extract, sugar, and ammonium chloride. The mixture is heated until it reaches a dough-like consistency, then it is shaped into the desired form.

Varieties

There are many varieties of salty liquorice, ranging from very mild to extremely salty. Some popular varieties include:

• Turkish Pepper: A hot and salty liquorice candy from Finland.
• Djungelvrål: A Swedish salty liquorice candy shaped like animals.
• Zout Drop: A Dutch variety of salty liquorice.

Health Effects

While salty liquorice is enjoyed by many, it is not without its potential health effects. The high sodium content can lead to high blood pressure if consumed in large amounts. Additionally, ammonium chloride can cause minor side effects such as nausea and stomach discomfort.

Cultural Significance

Salty liquorice is more than just a candy in the regions where it is popular. It is a part of the cultural identity, especially in the Nordic countries. It is often used in cooking and baking, and there are even salty liquorice flavored alcoholic beverages.

See Also

• Liquorice (confectionery)
• Ammonium chloride
• Candy

External Links

• Official website
• Salmiakki Society