Watch out for the drop!

 I have a sweet tooth and I noticed enticing bags of sweets when we were on one of our recent shopping marathons.  So I thought I would find out more about “drop” and maybe sample some. Here’s what I found out.

The Netherlands boasts the highest per capita consumption of licorice in the world, with each person eating more than 4 pounds per year! So what’s the deal with the Dutch and drop as they call it!

Dutchies truly love their licorice or drop as it is known in the Netherlands. You can find it in nearly every shop from Albert Heijn to Hema, as well as the ubiquitous Jamin candy shop. There is a flavor or type of drop for every taste from sweet to salty, hard to soft. Drop comes in many shapes and sizes from small Groene Erwten (green peas) to large Muntdrop chewy coins.

Although the Dutch (as well as Scandinavians and Germans) love black licorice, many people do not enjoy the taste, especially the salty varieties.

Liquorice or licorice is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra from which a sweet flavor is obtained. This extract is mixed with sugars and other flavorings to create drop candy.

Drop is not only a tasty treat, licorice is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and other medicinal properties and has been used to treat ailments for centuries. However, excessive consumption of licorice or licorice candy is known to be toxic to the liver and cardiovascular system, and may produce high blood pressure.

In 2008 the European Commission reported that eating too much licorice can raise blood pressure or cause muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, headaches or swelling, and lower testosterone levels in men. Like all good things, drop is best in moderation.

In view of the health warning and advice from my personal Dutch dietician I have decided to forego this treat. 

Speaking of health (and my Dutch dietician), Elizabeth is making a routine visit to her doctor this morning. (She is going on her bike). We both have survived serious conditions in the last few years (thanks to the wonderful NHS). So it’s important that we visit our doctors regularly for checks.

We have made no other plans for today, but the weather forecast is somewhat better with only light rain showers expected. As I write the sun is shining! So perhaps we may go for a walk this afternoon.

More news soon….