Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Haribo Raspberries

I decided for my next taste test I would try another Haribo product, the Raspberries.  I have heard so many good things about these that I almost placed a large order online for my next taste test since it was so much cheaper.  However, while shopping at my local Wegman's earlier this afternoon, I noticed that they actually sold these in their bulk candy aisle.  I picked up a small batch and I have to say, I am glad I didn't place that large order.  I found the outer nonpareil candy coating to be very unpleasant, it diluted the flavor of an already weak gummy and added a chalky aftertaste.  I also didn't note much of a difference between the red and the black, which I thought were supposed to be two different flavors, raspberries and blackberries.  I did note that the package only says raspberries so maybe the color difference is for decoration only.  This gummy was a huge disappointment for me taste wise.  These are very pretty though, and would make a great topper for cupcakes or something.


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Texture: The texture of the gummy inside seemed to be the regular firm Haribo gummies, similar to the Gold Bears.  It was a little hard to tell with the nonpareil outer coating which made the whole thing chalky and dry.

Flavors: The berries are decorated to look like raspberries and blackberries, however I didn't notice a difference in flavor.  As noted above, the package only says Raspberries, so even though there are two different colors, I believe this to be a one flavor product.

Cost: $0.36/oz at Wegman's

Availability: These aren't as widespread as the Gold Bears, but they are easily located at candy shops and grocery stores.  Several online retailers also carry these at decent rates.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Haribo Gold Bears: The Gummy to Beat

I am definitely a gummy bear addict and I measure all gummies against the gold standard, Haribo Gold Bears.  I have been unable to find a gummy in the United States to rival its flavor or texture.  Other gummies seem to be either too chewy, too sweet, or have a very unpleasant after taste.  I've decided to set out on a quest to try and find a better gummy.  Let the sugar rush begin!

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Texture: A bit firm, requires a lot of chewing, but I prefer this- keeps me from gobbling them too quickly and I am able to savor the flavors.

Flavors: There are 5 flavors: lemon (yellow), orange (orange), raspberry (red), strawberry (green), pineapple (clear).  The strawberry is delicious, definitely my overall favorite flavor, though I do find it a bit odd that they chose green as the color for this flavor.  There is no unpleasant after taste, as are sometimes found with other brands.  I would prefer it if the intensity of flavor was a bit stronger, but overall great flavors.

Cost: $0.18/oz, purchased in bulk via Amazon

Availability: These can be found just about anywhere these days, at least in the Northeastern United States.