Have you ever wondered why your favorite candy tastes different when you're abroad? It’s not just your imagination! Popular candies get a bit of a makeover depending on where they’re sold to fit local tastes, dietary needs, and even cultural preferences. From swapping out ingredients to rolling out flavors you’ve never heard of, candy companies go the extra mile to keep everyone happy around the world.
In this post, we’ll dive into how some of your favorite sweets, like Skittles and M&M’s, are produced differently across the globe. Plus, we’ll highlight the growing demand for vegan-friendly options that you might be missing out on here in the U.S.!
1. The Global Evolution of Skittles
Skittles are a perfect example of how candy adapts to regional tastes and dietary needs. In the U.S., Skittles contain gelatin derived from animal products, which means they aren’t suitable for vegans. However, in places like the UK, many Skittles varieties are vegan-friendly, as they use plant-based alternatives.
Even the flavors differ across the globe. Here’s a quick look at some of the unique varieties you won’t find in the U.S.:
- Skittles Giants (UK)
- Skittles Floral Gummies (China)
- Skittles Desserts (Australia)
And if you’re concerned about artificial additives, you’ll be happy to know that many international versions of Skittles, especially in Europe, do not contain artificial coloring. Instead, they rely on natural dyes derived from plants and fruits.
2. M&M's: The Global Take on a Classic
M&M's might be synonymous with American candy culture, but their ingredients and flavors vary widely across the world. For example, in Europe, there’s a growing trend toward eliminating artificial colors, making the M&M's you’d find in the UK or Germany quite different from their U.S. counterparts.
In countries like Thailand, you can also enjoy Coconut M&M's, a flavor not commonly found in the United States. Additionally, international M&M varieties tend to focus on local taste preferences, with flavors like Chili Nut in Australia, offering a unique twist on a global favorite.
3. Vegan Candy on the Rise
As the demand for plant-based diets continues to grow worldwide, candy manufacturers are innovating to create more vegan-friendly options. Several countries are ahead of the curve, producing sweets that cater to both ethical and dietary needs.
Swedish Fish, for example, are naturally vegan and a favorite in many countries. And while many gummies in the U.S. rely on gelatin, you’ll find that many international brands, especially in Europe, use plant-based alternatives like pectin or agar, making them suitable for vegans.
4. Healthier, Cleaner Labels Abroad
In addition to being vegan-friendly, international candies often prioritize cleaner labels. The European Union has strict regulations on food additives, meaning that candies produced in Europe are often free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. Take Starburst: while the U.S. versions often use synthetic colors and flavors, in the UK, you’ll find these iconic candies made with natural fruit and vegetable extracts.
5. Discover International and Vegan-Friendly Candy with Galactic Snacks
At Galactic Snacks, we’re proud to offer a wide range of international and vegan-friendly candy. Whether you’re looking for your favorite U.S. brands with a global twist or vegan alternatives, we’ve got you covered. Check out our international candy collection and explore sweets from around the world today!
Conclusion:
Candy may be a global delight, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether it’s vegan-friendly options, clean-label ingredients, or bold new flavors, the world’s candy makers are adapting to meet the tastes and values of their customers. At Galactic Snacks, we believe in offering the best from around the globe. So next time you’re craving something sweet, why not try a treat that’s a little different?