Zotz (candy)

Zotz are a hard candy manufactured by G.B. Ambrosoli in Italy. They are characterized by their fizzy, slightly sour, sherbet-like filling.

The candy consists of a hard candy shell, typically fruit-flavored (e.g., cherry, orange, grape, watermelon, apple, blue raspberry). Inside this shell is a compressed tablet composed of tartaric acid and sodium bicarbonate. When the hard candy shell dissolves in the mouth, saliva comes into contact with the filling, causing a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This results in a tingling, fizzy sensation.

Zotz candies have been available since the 1970s and enjoyed for their unique effervescent characteristic. They are distributed internationally and are often found in retro candy stores and specialty shops.