S-Märke, which literally translates to “S-label,” originated in the 1950s under the Malaco brand, now part of Cloetta, one of Scandinavia’s largest confectionery companies. At the time, the Swedish candy industry was keen on ensuring quality in sweets, and the “S” on the candy was a mark of approved quality and authenticity.

What started as a simple label transformed into a cultural icon , representing not just a sour candy but also a piece of Swedish identity. Over the years, S-Märke evolved, introducing new flavors and levels of sourness while maintaining its signature “S” imprint and chewy, sugar-dusted exterior.

While S-Märke is known for its sour kick, it’s not the harsh, artificial sourness you might find in other candies. Instead, it delivers a bright, fruity tang that makes your mouth water while being enjoyable, not painful.

Popular S-Märke flavors include:

• 🍋 Lemon: Fresh, citrusy, and sharp but with a mellow sweetness as you chew.

• 🍏 Green Apple: Tart and juicy, capturing the crisp taste of green apples.

• 🍓 Raspberry: A sweet-tart berry flavor that balances the sourness beautifully.

• 🥤 Cola: A unique blend of cola soda flavor with a sour twist, loved by many.

• ⚫ Salt Licorice (S-Märke Salt & Sour): For the adventurous, this combines salty licorice with a sour coating—a true Swedish favorite.

And for those who love a challenge, S-Märke Supersurt (Super Sour) offers an extra kick of sourness while still maintaining those fruity, enjoyable undertones.

To understand why S-Märke holds such a special place in Swedish hearts, you have to understand the lördagsgodis tradition . In Sweden, children (and adults!) often enjoy a bag of assorted candies on Saturdays, a tradition that has existed since the 1950s. For many, S-Märke was that “sour treat” added to their candy mix, providing a fun contrast to the chocolates and gummies.

Beyond tradition, S-Märke is:

• Vegan-friendly (many varieties)
• Gelatin-free, making it accessible to more people
• Produced with a focus on quality, not just novelty

It’s the candy you share with friends, take on a summer road trip, or keep in your bag for a quick sour-sweet moment during the day.

If you’re a sour candy lover, S-Märke will quickly become a favorite in your candy rotation. Unlike candies that prioritize extreme sourness at the expense of flavor, S-Märke delivers a layered taste experience : tangy at first, then fruity, with a satisfyingly chewy finish.

It’s more than just candy; it’s a taste of Swedish culture , reminding us that sometimes the simplest candies are the ones that stay in our hearts the longest.