I Tested All 24 Hi-Chew Flavors in the US (Worst to Best)

If you’re like me and adore soft, stretchy treats; then you probably have already tasted several yummy Hi-chew flavors. Since its inception, Hi-Chew has developed an impressive collection of over 170 flavors, continually expanding its offerings to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

In 1956, Morinaga & Co., Japan’s first modern candy company, created the Hi-Chew candy. Since its introduction to the United States in 2008, it has become popular with the masses, even celebrities!

With flavors as diverse as Italian lemon and Tsuyuakane plum, and exotic options like lilikoi and acai, HI-CHEW delivers an astonishingly authentic taste experience that mirrors the flavors they’re meant to emulate. I’m saying this not just from hearsay, but from personal experience.

What is Special About Japanese Candy Hi-Chew?

Is Hi Chew Japanese? Yes, different flavors are available worldwide now it was originally a Japanese candy. Before we discuss the flavors, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Hi-Chew so beloved. The delicious chewy texture and dozens of tasty flavors have made Hi-Chew a candy phenomenon worldwide. All Hi-Chew flavors have become a favorite among chewy candy enthusiasts across the world – including in America.

Unlike traditional taffy or chewing gum, Hi-Chew has a delightful chewiness that gives way to an explosion of flavor til the end. This well-loved Japanese treat from Morinaga is not a chewing gum; rather, it’s a soft chewy candy intended to be swallowed. Each Hi-Chew candy flavor offers a unique and original taste experience that keeps you craving more.

Hi-Chew’s unique double-layer structure is crafted to perfectly replicate the taste of real fruits. Just like biting into a fresh fruit, you’ll first experience a burst of intense freshness. Then, as you continue to chew, the sweetness or sourness of the fruit’s flesh spreads throughout your mouth. This distinctive taste sensation is made possible only by Hi-Chew’s double-layer design.

Years of research into sugar crystal control, combined with expertise in manufacturing and flavoring, result in the soft texture and satisfying chewiness that are the hallmark features of Hi-Chew. With each bite, you’ll feel a juicy sensation that fills your mouth and ends after a pleasant chewing experience.

24 Hi-Chew Flavors in the US from Worst to Best

Are you looking for a quick guide to best hi chew flavors? This article is for you. I’ve tried all 24 Hi-Chew flavors available in the US to figure out which ones are the best. Whether you’re crazy about Hi-Chew candy or just want to try something new, this blog has all the information you need. Taking a look at Hi-Chew flavors together, let’s discover which Hi-Chew flavors are the real winners and which you might want to skip!

#24 Blueberry

While Hi-Chew describes its Blueberry flavor as a burst of tang and sweetness akin to freshly picked blueberries, the reality doesn’t align with these claims. After tasting, I felt that this Hi-Chew candy leans more towards the flavor notes of a blueberry muffin rather than the vibrant freshness of plucked berries from the bush.

What’s lacking here are the crisp, tart flavors characteristic of freshly harvested blueberries. Instead, this chewy candy is rich in heavier, baked flavors, bringing back memories of eating Nutri-Grain Bars than of biting into a juicy, ripe fruit. It’s a reminder that while Hi-Chew excels in many flavors, their blueberry candy is one of the varieties that don’t capture the essence they aim to replicate.

#23 Black Cherry

Black Cherry Hi-Chew, similar to other black cherry treats, has a scent that may remind you more of a cough lozenge than a sweet chewy candy. Its aroma is pungent and lacks the depth and complexity typically associated with fruity candies. The flavor profile of Black Cherry Hi-Chew comes across as flat and one-dimensional, lacking the vibrant notes of fruity flavors. Overall, this chewy candy tastes nothing like the cherries found in nature, rather it yields a distinctly artificial and less enjoyable experience.

Unfortunately, the taste leans heavily towards medicinal, lacking the natural sweetness and authenticity one would expect from cherry-flavored candies. The flavor of Black Cherry Hi-Chew may stir up memories of Luden’s Wild Cherry Throat Drops, minus the comforting relief they provide for sore throats or coughs. In the Hi-Chew “Berry Mix” bag, black cherry joins raspberry and blueberry to create a trio of flavors that initially seem promising. However, upon tasting, the overall theme of the bag feels underwhelming, as the flavors fail to deliver the expected satisfaction or excitement.

#22 Banana

Banana candy typically has a sweet, artificial flavor similar to ripe bananas, but with a more intense and sugary taste. The flavor often leans towards a candy-like interpretation of bananas rather than a true-to-life representation.

When I tasted Hi-Chew’s Banana flavor I felt a tart taste in my mouth. This banana chewy candy had the exact opposite flavor when I compare it to the artificial banana taste that I expected. It’s not like the candy tasted like fresh bananas rather it tastes more like the banana peel. Many will not find this flavor desirable and for all the right reasons.

#21 Sweet & Sour Watermelon

According to Hi-Chew, the Sweet & Sour pack offers “real fruit flavors enhanced by a tangy twist.” As a result, I was expecting a refreshing and juicy taste with a hint of tartness from their sweet and sour watermelon. To my disappointment, the candy tasted overly and artificially sweet and had little to no sour flavor.

Featuring a white center surrounded by a pink band of watermelon candy, the watermelon in the sweet-and-sour collection is unimpressive. Probably, this chewy candy is overly sweet due to its formulation, which prioritizes replicating the intense sweetness of the ripe watermelon. While this sweetness is meant to mimic the natural flavor of the fruit, it ends up being too strong or cloying, especially for those who prefer a more subtle or balanced taste.

#20 Pineapple

Their Pineapple flavor reminds us that while Hi-Chew excels in many taste profiles, there’s still an elusive quality to certain fruits that remains challenging to replicate in candy form. While the candy comes close to replicating the taste of fresh pineapple, it falls slightly short of capturing the fruit’s full essence. With its Pineapple flavor, Hi-Chew tries to capture tropical fruitiness but misses the mark slightly by drifting towards an overly perfumed sweetness. However, it’s far from being a disappointment. Instead, it caters well to individuals specifically seeking a tropical flavor experience.

Perfecting tropical flavors in chewy candy is no easy feat. The fruits they aim to replicate are bursting with juicy goodness, making it challenging to capture that essence in a sweet treat. Pineapple, in its natural state, has a delightful musky sweetness that’s hard to mimic artificially. Despite the efforts, this Hi-chew candy fails to capture the distinctive sharpness and citrusy edge of real pineapple.

#19 Kiwi

The kiwi-flavored Hi-Chew made its debut in 2017, marking a relatively recent addition to the brand’s new flavors. Available both individually in stick packaging and as part of the Tropical Mix and Superfruit Mix bags, this flavor stands out visually with tiny black specks that mimic the appearance of real kiwi fruit.

Unfortunately, this unique addition doesn’t contribute much to the flavor experience. It’s disappointing that the Kiwi Hi-Chew doesn’t capture the true essence of the fruit, lacking the distinct pineapple and berry notes you’d expect. Instead, it tastes more like a watered-down version of Green Apple Hi-Chew rather than authentic kiwi fruit.

#18 Blue Hawaii

In Hi-Chew’s Fantasy Pack, the only flavor that doesn’t quite win me over is the Blue Hawaii variant. The Blue Hawaii flavor might appeal to fans of bold, sweet cocktails, but it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Its vibrant appearance, with a glowing pale blue outer layer and a soft canary yellow center, is undeniably eye-catching and perhaps the most visually striking in the entire Hi-Chews candy lineup.

While I appreciate its boldness and unique approach, trying to replicate the complex flavors of a rum, pineapple, and Blue Curaçao cocktail may have been a bit ambitious. The Blue Hawaii Hi-Chew’s attempt at extravagantness ends up being its downfall.

#17 Açai

Does Hi-Chew Acai candy manage to keep the rich berry flavor of this exotic superfruit? Acai is famous worldwide for its amazing health benefits. However, in a candy you should not look for the nutrients as in candy form it will only offer a flavor and temporary sugar rush. I tried one from Hi-Chew’s Superfruit Mix pack to evaluate the taste, FYI it is also available in stick form. The sweetness of this chewy candy is balanced with a subtle tartness, creating a well-rounded and refreshing taste sensation.

The Hi-Chew Acai flavor presents a taste profile reminiscent of blueberries or blackberries, characterized by a tart skin that gives way to a sweet finish. Similarly, with each chew of Hi-Chew Acai, you’ll encounter a momentary burst of mouth-puckering sourness, akin to the experience of biting into a Sour Patch Kids candy. However, this initial tartness quickly transitions into a satisfying sweetness, creating a dynamic and enjoyable flavor journey from start to finish. Overall, a winner among those who appreciate the unique acai taste.

#16 Dragonfruit

Another chewy candy from the Superfruit Mix Bag, Dragon Fruit has a rosy magenta outer layer and a white center with chia seeds as its signature black seeds. While real dragon fruit often falls short of its visually stunning appearance and lacks a bold flavor, especially when not fully ripe, Hi-Chew has managed to capture its essence and elevate it to new heights.

With hints of pear, stone fruit, and kiwi, this candy embodies the concentrated essence of dragon fruit, offering a delightful taste experience. It’s a flavor journey that transports you to the tropics, even if you can’t find the fruit itself in most parts of the U.S. Luckily, you can enjoy this treat in Hi-Chew’s Tropical Mix Stand Up Pouch or the Superfruit Mix Bag.

#15 Plain Yogurt

Honestly, this doesn’t taste much like yogurt, but that’s not necessarily bad. It’s more like sweetened condensed milk, a dessert ingredient you might sneak a taste of while baking. While “sweetened condensed milk” may not sound as catchy as “plain yogurt,” there’s a reason why this candy ranks near the top.

Despite not tasting like yogurt, it does have a subtle tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness. We also noticed hints of vanilla in the finish. This flavor is exclusively available in the Yogurt Mix pack, alongside strawberry yogurt and blueberry yogurt variants.

#14 Sweet & Sour Lemon

Sweet & Sour Lemon Hi-Chew tastes a lot like a lemon Starburst but with an added kick of citric acid. It’s sour enough to make me pucker up yet still sweet enough to make me want to grab another from the mixed bag. While it’s not a total letdown, the only downside is that it feels a bit too similar to another candy brand, which makes it seem less original. With Hi-Chew offering such a diverse range of fruit flavors, it would be nice to see a switch from lemon to the more aromatic and tart yuzu citrus fruit.

#13 Mango

Mango is another tropical fruit that Hi-Chew draws inspiration from – capturing the essence of its ripe flesh in its Mango chewy candy. Unlike pineapple or banana flavors, this Mango Hi-Chew stays true to the raw taste of the fruit rather than presenting a fragrant or overpowering tropical flavor. It sets a high standard in terms of flavor, reminding us of the delightful experience of enjoying bites of mango sticky rice.

The texture is soft and pleasant while still maintaining Hi-Chew’s trademark chewiness. Many Americans love the Hi-Chew mango flavor for its deliciously authentic taste and tropical sweetness. Additionally, the chewy texture of Hi-Chew candies enhances the eating experience, allowing you to savor the flavor slowly.

#12 Strawberry

As the very first flavor created by Hi-Chew founder Morinaga, it still holds up well, offering a pink-centred candy that screams “strawberry”. When you tear open a pack of Strawberry Hi-Chews, a sweet and fruity aroma fills the air, evoking memories of candy-scented toys. The candy itself is soft and chewy, with a texture that’s just right – not too firm, not too sticky.

When it comes to flavor, Hi-Chew’s strawberry candy does not disappoint. It has a vibrant and juicy flavor with a hint of tartness, mimicking the taste of biting into a fresh strawberry. What’s impressive is that the strawberry chewy candy feels authentic and satisfying without leaving an artificial or overly sugary aftertaste.

#11 Sweet & Sour Grapefruit

The Hi-Chew Sweet and Sour Grapefruit candy stands out for its remarkable ability to capture the unique flavor profile of grapefruit. Exclusively found in the Sweet & Sour bag, yields capture the tangy, acidic taste that reminds you of the real fruit.

Each piece features a pink exterior encasing a white center, offering a visually appealing treat that evokes memories of leisurely brunches paired with a refreshing glass of white grapefruit juice. While the candy’s acidity is noticeable, it’s not overly sour, striking a delicate balance that adds to its appeal. Grapefruit Hi-Chew earns a top spot in the Hi-Chew lineup for its true representation of the citrusy muse.

#10 Raspberry

Hi-Chew Raspberry is a definite favorite from the Berry Pack trio. While it doesn’t bring anything groundbreaking, it’s a classic red/pink flavor that hits the spot. It reminded me of the raspberry flavor in Mamba Fruit Chews, with a ripe sweetness and skipping the tartness. The taste leans more towards a Jamba Juice smoothie than a real raspberry bite, but it’s a satisfying flavor burst nonetheless. With its soft and chewy texture, vibrant color, and familiar raspberry taste, Hi-Chew Raspberry is sure to please chewy candy lovers of all ages.

#9 Lilikoi

This exotic flavor, inspired by the lilikoi fruit, also known as passion fruit, delivers a burst of tropical sweetness with a hint of tartness. With its vibrant yellow packaging and promise of exotic flavor, I was eager to see how it stacked up. Lilikoi Hi-Chew candy offers a unique and delightful taste experience that’s sure to intrigue candy enthusiasts. This flavor perfectly captures the essence of passion fruit – tangy, sweet, and bursting with tropical goodness. Each bite feels like taking a mini vacation to Hawaii, with its refreshing and vibrant flavor profile. It didn’t taste artificial or overly sweet like some fruit candies can. I totally recommend it!

#8 Blue Raspberry

In Hi-Chew’s Fantasy Mix Variety pack, the Blue Raspberry flavor takes the lead over the more traditional red raspberry flavor. This candy stands out as the most dynamic in the brand’s collection. From its initial cotton candy-like sweetness to its transition into a fruity delight, Blue Raspberry Hi-Chew offers a delightful taste experience.

While the reasoning behind Hi-Chew’s categorization of its Fantasy Mix Variety Pack, including Rainbow Sherbert and Blue Hawaii, may remain a mystery, the introduction of Blue Raspberry Hi-Chew is undoubtedly a gift for those who love Hi-Chew.

#7 Rainbow Sherbet

Among the enchanting flavors found in Hi-Chew’s Fantasy collection, Rainbow Sherbet stands out as a delightful surprise. Initially met with skepticism, this flavor proved to be a delightful departure from the frozen dessert feel typically associated with sherbet.

It is a combination of fruity flavors, including citrusy notes like orange, lemon, and lime, and sweet berry flavors like raspberry or strawberry. From the zingy citrus flavors to the sweet and tangy berry notes, this candy offers a delightful experience that will keep you coming back for more.

#6 Cola

In the Hi-Chew Soda Pop bundle, the cola flavor stands out as a true winner. Hi-Chew has perfectly captured the essence of cola in this chewy candy, striking a remarkable balance of flavors. With each bite, you’re greeted by herbal notes that evoke the classic taste of cola. The caramel-colored candy chunks offer a delightful blend of sweetness and hints of vanilla, along with botanical undertones of sarsaparilla.

While it’s not explicitly stated, we suspect that the cola flavoring is designed to mimic the taste of Coca-Cola, though legally, it cannot be advertised as such. Regardless, the resemblance is strikingly convincing. In fact, upon biting into the candy, I felt the sensation of carbonated fizz—a testament to the authenticity of the flavor.

#5 Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie Hi-Chew candy is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the beloved dessert in chewy candy form. This candy offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, remindful of freshly squeezed key lime juice mixed with a creamy sweetness. What sets it apart is its authentic flavor profile – each chew delivers the zesty citrus notes of key lime, followed by a hint of graham cracker crust undertones.

It’s like indulging in a slice of key lime pie but in a convenient and portable candy format. Whether you’re a fan of the dessert or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with a refreshing and unique flavor, Key Lime Pie Hi-Chew candy is sure to please!

#4 Grape

Hi-Chew fans love Hi-Chew Grape and rank it as one of the best flavors, known for its immediate burst of flavor. Unlike other grape candies that can sometimes taste like cough syrup, Grape Hi-Chew offers a unique and authentic taste similar to that of muscadine grapes. These thick, circular grapes are known for their juicy flesh that can be easily squeezed out of the skin.

With its bold, fragrant, and robust flavor, Grape Hi-Chew stands out as not only one of the brand’s best creations but also one of the top grape candies available. Whether you’re a fan of grape-flavored candies or simply looking to try something new and delicious, Grape Hi-Chew is sure to impress with its authentic taste and satisfying chew texture.

#3 Orange

Vivid and mildly tangy, Hi-Chew Orange stands out among the top flavors. It is a real treat for citrus lovers. When you open the pack, you can smell the sweet orange scent right away. Taking a bite, you’ll taste the tangy flavor of a ripe orange – it’s not too sweet or fake-tasting. You’ll taste the sweet and zesty notes of citrus with every chew, reminiscent of a sunny day in the orchard.

It’s a burst of refreshing flavor that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The chewy texture makes it fun to eat, and you can enjoy it anywhere thanks to the handy packaging. You should try Hi-Chew Orange candy for a delightful burst. Each chewy piece captures the refreshing taste of oranges, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. With its soft and chewy texture, Hi-Chew Orange candy provides a satisfying mouthfeel that makes it a joy to eat.

#2 Strawberry Ice Cream

Indulging in the Strawberry Ice Cream flavor from the Hi-Chew dessert mix stand-up pouch is like taking a delicious journey to the ice cream parlor. Introduced just two years ago it is one of their tastiest new flavors. Each chewy candy is packed with the sweet and creamy taste of ripe strawberries swirled with rich vanilla ice cream. It’s a delightful blend of fruity freshness and creamy goodness that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s like enjoying a scoop of your favorite strawberry ice cream in candy form.

Whether you’re a fan of classic desserts or just looking for a tasty treat, Strawberry Ice Cream Hi-Chew is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. You should try Hi-Chew Strawberry Ice Cream candy for a great and nostalgic flavor experience. Each chewy piece captures the slightly zesty sweetness of strawberry ice cream, reminding you of indulgent summer treats.

#1 Green Apple

Apple Flavor Hi-Chew Candy offers a delightful taste experience that’s sure to please both candy enthusiasts and apple lovers alike. With its vibrant green color and enticing aroma, this candy immediately captures your attention. Upon biting into it, you’re greeted with a burst of sweet and tangy apple flavor that’s remarkably true to the taste of a fresh apple.

Green Apple Hi-Chew strikes a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness, just like having a bite of a crisp Granny Smith apple. Found in the Original Mix bag alongside other fruity flavors like mango, grape, and strawberry, green apple Hi-Chew stands out as a refreshing option. Also, available solely in stick form. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth with a refreshing and delicious treat.

Here is a video from “Good Mythical Morning” – they tasted all of them, too. Their taste is kind of similar, but there are some differences:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Okay to Swallow Hi-Chew Candy?

Yes, unlike chewing gum, it’s generally safe to swallow Hi-Chew candy. Hi-Chew candies are soft, chewy, and easy to swallow. Hi-Chew is a chewy candy that is meant to be swallowed while chewing gum is typically chewed for flavor and then discarded. Additionally, Hi-Chew has a soft and stretchy texture, similar to taffy, whereas chewing gum is usually firmer and more elastic. In Japanese culture, discarding chewing gum after chewing is considered rude, and this was probably the inspiration behind the Hi-Chew chewy candies. However, like any candy or food, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

Is Hi-Chew Candy Gluten-Free?

Yes, Hi-Chew candy is gluten-free. It does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients, and the company states that it takes precautions to prevent cross-contamination with gluten during the manufacturing process. However, it’s always a good idea to check the packaging for any specific allergen information or consult with the manufacturer if you have any concerns about gluten or other allergens.

Are There Any Artificial Flavors or Colors in Hi-Chew Candy?

Hi-Chew prides itself on using real fruit juice and purees to achieve the delicious taste of fruity candies. While the candy does contain some artificial flavors to enhance the taste experience, these are carefully selected to complement the natural fruit ingredients. The brand is committed to transparency about its ingredients and strives to minimize the use of artificial additives wherever possible. One of the key features of Hi-Chew candy is its vibrant and natural colors. Unlike some candies that rely heavily on artificial dyes, Hi-Chew uses natural coloring agents derived from fruits and vegetables to achieve its signature hues.

Is Hi-Chew Candy Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?

Yes, most Hi-Chew candy is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients. However, some varieties of Hi-Chew candy may contain ingredients like gelatin, which is not vegetarian-friendly. Some candy may contain beeswax, which isn’t even vegan-friendly. Therefore, you should check the ingredients list on the packaging or contact the manufacturer if you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences. Additionally, Hi-Chew offers some vegan-friendly options, and the packaging typically indicates if the candy is suitable for vegans.

Can I Find Chewy Candy in Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar Options?

Hi-Chew does offer a reduced-sugar version of their chewy candy. This variation is designed for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying the delicious taste of Hi-Chew. The Reduced Sugar Hi-Chew candy is formulated with 30% less sugar than the traditional varieties, making it a suitable option for individuals who are watching their sugar intake or following a low-sugar diet. Reduced Sugar Hi-Chew candies typically contain sugar substitutes or alternative sweeteners to achieve their lower sugar content.

Are There Any Allergens in Hi-Chew Candy, Such as Nuts or Dairy?

Hi-Chew candy typically does not contain common allergens such as nuts or dairy in its standard formulations. However, it’s essential to check the packaging for each specific flavor as ingredients may vary depending on the variety. Hi-Chew candies do not contain peanuts, and they are not manufactured in facilities that process peanuts. Additionally, Hi-Chew is safe for individuals with tree nut allergies. This makes Hi-Chew a suitable choice for those with nut allergies who are looking for a delicious and safe candy option.

Why Are Hi Chews So Addicting?

Hi-Chew candies are often described as addictive due to several factors. One key aspect is their unique texture, which strikes a perfect balance between chewiness and softness. Unlike some candies that may be overly hard or excessively sticky, Hi-Chew candies offer a satisfying chew. Additionally, Hi-Chew candies feature a double layer of flavor, allowing for the real fruit flavor to intensify and release as you chew. This burst of flavor is incredibly satisfying and enjoyable, enticing you to reach for another piece. The combination of texture and flavor in Hi-Chew candies creates a desirable experience that many people find difficult to resist, leading to their reputation as a particularly addictive candy option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tasting all 24 of these popular Japanese candies in the US, from the least to the most favorite, was quite an adventure in flavor and texture. Each type of candy offered its own unique characteristics and charm, from the tangy burst of citrus to the sweet indulgence of tropical fruits.

As I became more familiar with the world of Hi-Chew, I discovered that finding the best flavor is a personal experience influenced by individual preferences and likings. Whether you’re drawn to the boldness of grape or the refreshing zest of lemon, there’s something to savor for everyone at Hi-Chew. I also recommend you should try different Hi-Chew flavors and find your favorites. There are so many options to choose from, so grab a pack, enjoy each chew, and let the tasty journey begin! Happy chewing until next time!