Candy Kittens exists because its founder couldn't find a grown-up gummy sweet on a UK shelf that didn't contain gelatine — so he started a brand that doesn't use it.
Where the brand came from
Candy Kittens was founded in 2012 by Jamie Laing, who later became known for Made in Chelsea, together with his friend James Bennett. The pair wanted to create a gummy sweet brand that felt closer to the fruit-forward, natural confectionery they'd tried in mainland Europe, rather than the more traditional gelatine-based gummies dominating UK shelves. The brand launched into a premium space first, stocked in Selfridges before expanding into mainstream supermarkets including Tesco and Sainsbury's.
What actually sets it apart
The core difference between Candy Kittens and traditional Haribo-style gummies comes down to ingredients rather than shape or size.
- No gelatine — Candy Kittens uses an alternative gelling agent, making the range suitable for vegetarians and, in most cases, vegans
- Natural flavourings and colours — drawn from fruit and vegetable extracts rather than synthetic dyes
- Premium positioning — marketed and priced as a step up from mass-market gummies, with resealable pouches rather than traditional bags
Popular flavours
The range built its reputation on bold, intensely fruity flavours rather than trying to copy classic shapes. Wild Strawberry, Sour Watermelon, Fizzy Cherry Cola and Sour Peach became some of the brand's best-known lines, and Candy Kittens has continued to add seasonal and collaboration flavours to the range since launch.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Candy Kittens?
Candy Kittens was founded in 2012 by Jamie Laing, best known from Made in Chelsea, together with James Bennett, after they struggled to find a gummy sweet brand they felt matched up to European gourmet standards.
What makes Candy Kittens different from traditional gummy sweets?
Candy Kittens sweets are made without gelatine and use natural flavourings and colourings from fruit and vegetable extracts, positioning the brand as a premium, vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternative to traditional gummies.
What are Candy Kittens' most popular flavours?
Signature flavours include Wild Strawberry, Sour Watermelon, Fizzy Cherry Cola and Sour Peach, alongside seasonal and limited-edition ranges.