swedish fish

What Flavor is Swedish Fish?

Swedish Fish is one of those classic candies that bring back memories for many of us. Whether you grew up snacking on them at the movies or sneaking a handful from a friend’s stash, there’s no mistaking their iconic shape and chewy texture. But have you ever stopped to wonder, what flavor is Swedish Fish, exactly?

The short answer? It’s not as straightforward as you might think.
While most people would guess that the bright red color means cherry, strawberry, or even raspberry, the actual flavor of Swedish Fish has been a bit of a mystery—and a topic of debate—for quite some time. Let’s dive in and uncover the real flavor behind this beloved candy.

sweidh fish

The Classic Red Swedish Fish: What’s the Flavor?

The original, and arguably most famous, Swedish Fish is red. So naturally, when people see that bold red color, they think it must taste like a familiar red fruit flavor—strawberry or cherry, right? Well, not exactly.

The true flavor of the classic red Swedish Fish is fruit punch or lingonberry, depending on who you ask. Yes, fruit punch! While it may not be a specific fruit flavor, it’s a blend that evokes a sweet, slightly tangy taste that has kept people guessing for years. Some even say it has a bit of a lingonberry flavor, which is a tart red berry popular in Sweden. That would make sense, considering the candy’s Swedish origins!

A Brief History of Swedish Fish

Before we go further, it’s worth mentioning how Swedish Fish came to be. The candy was first created by the Swedish company Malaco in the 1950s and was exported to the U.S., where it quickly gained popularity. Swedish Fish are called “Pastellfiskar” in Sweden, meaning “pale-colored fish,” and while they come in various flavors today, the redfish have always been the most iconic.

what favor is Swedish fish?

Why the Mystery Around the Flavor?

Part of the mystery comes from the fact that the company behind Swedish Fish, Mondelez International, has never officially confirmed what the red fish flavor is. Over the years, fans have speculated everything from cherry to watermelon, but fruit punch seems to be the closest consensus among those who have studied the candy more closely.

Adding to the confusion is that Swedish Fish doesn’t have the same kind of bold, singular flavor profile as other candies. Instead, the red fish has a sweet, fruity flavor that’s a bit more subtle and harder to pinpoint—hence the ongoing debate.

Do Swedish Fish Come in Other Flavors?

While the red Swedish Fish may be the most well-known, they actually come in several other flavors, especially in the multi-colored bags you can find in stores today. The most common flavors include:

  • Yellow (Lemon)
  • Green (Lime)
  • Orange (Orange)
  • Purple (Grape)

Each of these flavors has its own unique taste, but none are quite as iconic or mysterious as the original red.

Swedish Fish Around the World

Interestingly, if you travel to Sweden, where these candies originated, the flavor profile might surprise you. In Sweden, the candy tends to be less sweet and more focused on a tart, berry-like taste. This difference in flavor profiles between Swedish Fish in the U.S. and Sweden adds another layer to the candy’s intrigue.

Swedish fish

Fun Fact: Swedish Fish Are Vegan!

Another fun fact about Swedish Fish is that they’re one of the few gummy candies that are vegan-friendly. Unlike most gummy candies that contain gelatin (derived from animals), Swedish Fish are made without it, which makes them suitable for people following a plant-based diet. So, not only do they have a mysterious flavor, but they’re also a more inclusive candy option!

Why Are They Called Swedish Fish?

You might also be wondering why they’re called Swedish Fish in the first place. As the name suggests, it’s because they were originally made in Sweden, and the fish shape was chosen as a nod to the country’s fishing industry. Over time, the name stuck, and Swedish Fish became the iconic candy we know and love today.

The Verdict: What Flavor is Swedish Fish?

So, what flavor is Swedish Fish? The most likely answer is fruit punch, although some argue for a lingonberry influence, particularly when considering the candy’s Swedish roots. While it may not be a definitive answer, part of the charm of Swedish Fish is the playful mystery surrounding their flavor.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter if we can’t fully identify the flavor, right? As long as they taste good—and they definitely do—that’s what keeps people reaching for more.

Swedish Fish may have a mysterious flavor, but that’s part of the fun. Whether you call it fruit punch or something else, the chewy, sweet taste of this classic candy has made it a favorite for decades. So next time you pop one into your mouth, enjoy the mystery!