What’s in a Swedish Fish?

Answered by Jesse Garza

Swedish Fish are a popular candy known for their unique texture and flavor. But have you ever wondered what exactly goes into making these chewy treats? Let's dive into the ingredients and explore what makes Swedish Fish so delicious.

One of the key ingredients in Swedish Fish is invert sugar. Invert sugar is a combination of glucose and fructose, and it serves an important role in the candy's composition. Invert sugar has the ability to retain moisture, which is crucial for keeping Swedish Fish soft and chewy. This moisture retention is what gives the candy its characteristic texture, allowing it to maintain its shape while still being enjoyable to eat.

Another ingredient found in Swedish Fish is modified cornstarch. This ingredient is primarily used to form the shape of the candy. It helps give Swedish Fish their distinct fish shape and also contributes to their texture. Modified cornstarch acts as a binder, helping to hold the candy together and prevent it from becoming too sticky or gooey.

The candy also contains natural and artificial flavors. These flavors give Swedish Fish their iconic taste, which is often described as fruity and slightly tangy. The specific combination of flavors used in Swedish Fish is a closely guarded secret, but they undoubtedly play a major role in the candy's overall appeal.

Additionally, Swedish Fish are colored using various food dyes. These dyes add vibrant and eye-catching hues to the candy, making them visually appealing and fun to eat. The exact dyes used may vary depending on the batch or manufacturer, but commonly used dyes include Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5.

It's worth noting that Swedish Fish are free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. This makes them a suitable candy option for those with specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

Swedish Fish are made up of a few key ingredients that contribute to their unique texture, taste, and appearance. Invert sugar helps retain moisture and maintain their chewiness, while modified cornstarch helps shape the candy. Natural and artificial flavors provide the fruity and tangy taste, while food dyes add vibrant colors. Whether you're enjoying them as a nostalgic treat or discovering them for the first time, Swedish Fish are a delightful candy that continues to captivate candy lovers of all ages.