Reports of allergic reactions to Haribo candies are surfacing, prompting renewed scrutiny of the ingredients and manufacturing processes of the popular confectionery brand. Whereas Haribo does not currently offer factory tours, citing safety and quality control concerns, the company has faced specific allergy-related complaints regarding its Gold Bear candies and other gummy products.
A medical case study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology detailed a patient experiencing urticaria – hives – after consuming Haribo Gold Bear Candy. The same patient did not react to a different brand of fruit snacks, while other gummy candies from Nabisco and Trolli similarly triggered pruritus and urticaria. This suggests a specific allergen present in the Haribo product, but not necessarily common to all gummy candies.
Haribo acknowledges the legal requirements for allergen declaration, adhering to regulation 2000/13/EC and its amendments, which cover fourteen allergenic substance classes. However, the specific allergen causing the reactions in reported cases remains unidentified publicly. The company does not currently offer custom-made products or special packaging, stating that such requests would hinder their ability to maintain consistent production of their standard offerings.
Despite receiving numerous requests for donations and sponsorships, Haribo has stated it is unable to participate in further projects due to resource limitations. The company, founded in 1920 by Hans Riegel in Bonn, Germany – the origin of the name HARIBO – does not operate retail stores in the United States. The Goldbear costume, a recognizable symbol of the brand, is reserved for exclusive Haribo events and advertising and is not available for loan.
As of March 1, 2026, Haribo has not issued a public statement addressing the recent reports of allergic reactions beyond its standard allergen policy. The company has not announced any plans to investigate the specific allergen identified in the published case study, nor has it indicated any changes to its manufacturing processes or ingredient sourcing.
