There’s something so deeply satisfying about fizzy sweets, sourness, tanginess, and of course, that sugary sensation! But, how do sweets ‘fizz’ in the first place, and what’s the ingredient that makes them so?
From sherbet dips to sour shocks, fizzy sweets have captured our taste buds for generations, bringing a mix of nostalgia and unpredictability. They’re the kind of treat that adds a bit of fun to a pick and mix, making your mouth tingle and your face scrunch up in the best way possible.
In this blog, we’re going to uncover one of the greatest sweet mysteries, exploring the science of fizzy sweets. From rainbow pencils that fizz as you chew them to retro flying saucers and bubblegum bottles, here’s everything there is to know about fizzy sweets.
When Were Fizzy Sweets First Created?
Fizzy sweets aren’t as ‘modern’ as you may think. In fact, they were invented back in the 19th Century and quickly gained popularity. The earliest fizzy sweets included the humble fizzy cola bottle, which hit the shelves in 1930, before World War II. Similarly, sherbet, with its sweet, fizzing appeal, was invented in the 1800s, with the infamous lemon sherbet becoming a solid sweet in the UK.
How Do Sweets Become Fizzy?
Now that we’ve covered when fizzy sweets were invented, let’s dig into the science! Fizzy sweets produce a sensation that is very moreish, making some of our favourite sweets irresistible.
However, it’s a simple chemical reaction that makes fizzy sweets so delicious and addictive! When a fizzy sweet comes into contact with the moisture in our mouths, two key ingredients begin to react: citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, forming carbon dioxide.
It is the carbon dioxide that produces a ‘fizzing’ feeling on the tongue, providing fizzy sweets with their fun appeal. The tiny bubbles produced also enhance the flavour of fizzy sweets, spreading the flavour quicker than a regular sweet.
If you’ve ever eaten a fizzy sweet and had the taste linger in your mouth for a long time afterwards, this is the reason why.
A Sensory Sweet that Many People Love
Fizzy sweets aren’t for everyone, but for those who enjoy them, it’s all to do with your senses. When the citric acid and sodium bicarbonate react together in your mouth, this stimulates temperature receptors. For many people, fizzy sweets can create a mild stinging sensation, which is a desirable effect.
Feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine, are released in a manner similar to how spicy food is experienced. Our bodies recognise the ‘pain’ as positive, creating pleasure.
The Best Fizzy Sweets To Try
No doubt, you’ve already tried a fizzy sweet or two in your lifetime, but as sweet enthusiasts, here’s a list of our top 5 fizzy sweets to try next time you buy a pick ‘n mix.
This classic fizzy sweet has been around for many generations with its tingling, delicious cola flavouring.
Another classic fizzy sweet, the eye-catching bubblegum bottle has a distinct taste of bubblegum and a fizzy tang!
You’ve been warned! Once you start eating fizzy strawberry bites, you won’t be able to stop. A perfect strawberry fizz with a smooth, cream centre.
Fish that are certainly funky, you’ll enjoy the chewy, sweet taste of these vegan-friendly fizzy sweets.
5.Fizzy Tongue Painters Dummies
Another firm, sweet classic, these yummy, juicy dummies are packed with tangy, fruity flavour, with a sour coating that will leave your mouth tingling.
Enjoy a noticeably sour, sugar-coated envelope that surrounds each fizzy pencil.
These fizzy slices have a tropical pina colada flavour; refreshing pineapple and creamy coconut.
8. Sour Shocks
These multicoloured sweets aren’t for those shy of sour flavourings! Each bite has an intense, sour yet sweet kick to the taste buds!
What About Sherbert Sweets?
Sherbert sweets also provide a similar sensation to fizzy sweets, but it’s a powdered version of the same fizzy chemical reaction. Sherbet powder is an ingredient composed of effervescent sugar, flavourings, and fizz-producing agents. The most well-known sherbet sweets in the UK include sherbet lemons, flying saucers, and dib-dabs.
Some versions of sherbert use malic acid for an extra sour edge. The fact that it’s powdered means you get more immediate contact with saliva, creating an explosive pop of fizz.
Fizzy Sweets Around the World
While the UK is known for its sherbet lemons and fizzy cola bottles, other countries have their own take on fizzy treats. In the United States, Pop Rocks are a classic example of tiny sweets that pop and crackle in your mouth thanks to pressurised carbon dioxide trapped inside the candy. Meanwhile, Japan is home to a range of unique fizzy sweets that include unusual flavours like soda, grape, and even yuzu.
European countries also enjoy their fair share of fizzy confections. Germany, for instance, is known for its sour gummy worms and fizzy fruit chews. Each region puts its own twist on fizzy flavours, proving that the love for tongue-tingling treats is truly universal.
Super Sour Fizzy Sweets
For anyone seeking a super fizzy sensation, many fizzy sweets are now available in extra sour variations. The reason for the increased sour flavourings of these sweets is also down to science; they combine extreme levels of acidity with the familiar fizz, for an intense reaction!
By using higher concentrations of citric, malic, or even tartaric acid, these sweets can be almost impossible to eat. If you’re a lover of sour sweets, why not check out our range of sour sweet options and set up your own sweet eating challenge?
Order From Our Selection of Fizzy Sweets Today
Are you craving that tongue-tingling, fizz-filled sensation? Browse our range of fizzy sweets and discover your new favourites! Whether you’re a fan of fruity fizz, sour shocks, or nostalgic sherbet classics, there’s something for every sweet lover to enjoy.
Perfect for parties, gifts, or just treating yourself, our fizzy sweets are guaranteed to add a burst of fun to your day. Sweets Direct delivers your favourite fizzy sweets straight to your door!