Katjes-Kinder liquorice

Katjes-Kinder is a prominent liquorice product under the Katjes brand, widely recognized for its distinctive cat-shaped hard liquorice pieces. The brand was founded in 1950 by Xaver Fassin in Emmerich am Rhein, Germany, based on a recipe inherited from his father. The name 'Katjes' is derived from the Dutch word for 'little cats,' which remains the brand's iconic symbol.

Production primarily takes place in Germany, where the company operates multiple factories, including its main site in Emmerich and a glass-walled 'transparent factory' in Berlin. Katjes has gained significant market prominence by being a pioneer in removing animal gelatin from its entire product range, making the Katjes-Kinder seen here suitable for vegans.

The brand is owned and operated by Katjes Fassin GmbH + Co. KG, a family-owned German enterprise that remains independent of the major global food conglomerates. As of 2024 and looking toward the future, the Fassin family continues to maintain ultimate ownership and control over the brand and its subsidiaries.