10 Unusual Candies & Treats To Give Out On Halloween

7. Läkerol

Edwin Goei

Origin: Sweden

The slogan printed on the back says: "Makes People Talk." Did its Swedish makers know this would conjure images of interrogations and water boarding? Surely, something was lost in the translation. This particular flavor of the candy is cactus. Are there cacti in Sweden? Nevertheless, it will freshen your breath. The gummy-like texture will start to dissolve the instant you put it in your mouth and a menthol-like vapor will travel up your throat and into your nostrils like a strong mint. A coolness follows, but also a strong licorice-like aftertaste. You'll like it if you like black licorice and menthol. If you don't, this might be just the thing they force you to eat to make you talk.

6. Kasugai Konpeito Candy

Edwin Goei

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Origin: Japan

They look like moth balls don't they? But Konpeito is just rock sugar candy. The name is derived from the Portuguese word, confeito, which means, whaddayaknow, candy. This, along with tempura, are thought to have been introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders. Those that remember Miyazaki's Spirited Away might recognize them. It was to the film like Reese's Pieces was to E.T.

5. Milky

Edwin Goei

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Origin: Japan

Milky tastes like solidified forms of sweetened condensed milk. That's all they are really, but therein lies their greatness. It somehow makes you think of childhood innocence. A simpler time when all you had to worry about was homework. The texture is not unlike Starburst--sticky and tacky. They could have, in fact, done better in calling these "Starbursty"... but then, lawyers don't have a sense of humor.

4. Philippine Brand Mango Balls

Edwin Goei

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Origin: Philippines

If you're enamored of Fruit Roll-Ups, Fruit Leathers or any of their facsimiles, you will love this. It's naturally chewy, almost as sticky as taffy, and has a tart finish similar to those American snacks. These, however, start off with a sugar-crystal crunch. You will see it immediately. Its sugar crust of practically glimmers. And it's this added sweetness that keeps you going. Just like tater tots, you will find it difficult to eat just one, or even just a few.