salmiak

Salmiak, also known as salmiakki in Finnish and salmiak in Swedish and Norwegian, refers to the salt ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) used as a flavoring in a distinctive type of licorice candy popular in the Nordic countries. The key feature is a pronounced salty taste, which comes from ammonium chloride rather than sodium chloride, and the licorice flavor accompanying it. In Nordic confectionery, salmiak is most closely associated with dark or black licorice candies, sold as hard pastilles, soft chews, or lozenges. These candies are commonly found in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland, and have a strong cultural presence in those countries.

The name derives from the historical term sal ammoniacum for ammonium chloride. In Nordic languages the flavor is widely referred to as "salmiak" or "salmiakki." The product category also includes salt-and-sour or extra-strong varieties, sometimes with added fruit flavors or sugar.

Taste and consumer note: Salmiak candies vary in salt content, but all share a high-intensity, salty-sweet profile that can be polarizing. They are typically eaten as candy, used as flavoring in other sweets, and sometimes offered as throat lozenges.

Regulation: Ammonium chloride is used as a food additive (E510) in many jurisdictions and is generally regarded as safe in the amounts used in candies. As with any strong-flavored product, individual taste preferences and health considerations apply.