Jojo Vexta - A Nostalgic Czech Candy Classic

Introduction to Jojo Vexta

Jojo Vexta is a popular Czech candy that has developed a cult following, especially among expats living in or visiting the Czech Republic. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into Jojo Vexta - from its history and ingredients to reviews and where to find it.

History of Jojo Vexta

Jojo Vexta was first produced in 1991 by the Czech candy company Vltava, based in the town of Tábor. It was originally marketed as a sweet treat for children, featuring a smiling circus clown named Jojo as its mascot. The chewy, fruit-flavored candies came in bright cardboard boxes illustrated with images of Jojo the clown.

The candy was an immediate hit with Czech kids in the 1990s. As those children grew up, Jojo Vexta took on a nostalgic significance. It reminded many Czech adults of carefree childhood days. The sweet treat gained a reputation as a beloved Czech candy classic.

Ingredients and Flavors

Jojo Vexta candies have a soft, chewy texture thanks to their main ingredient - glucose syrup. They also contain sugar, fruit juices from concentrate, citric acid, and natural flavors. Each candy is dusted with a layer of fine sugar.

The most popular Jojo Vexta flavors are:

• Cherry - bright red candy with a sweet cherry taste
• Orange - orange-colored candy with a tangy orange flavor
• Lemon - yellow candies with a refreshing lemony zing
• Apple - green candies with a fresh apple flavor
• Cola - brown candies that taste like fizzy cola

Limited edition flavors are sometimes produced, like raspberry, pear, pineapple, or grape. Part of the nostalgic fun of Jojo Vexta is never knowing what new flavors might get created!

Packaging

Jojo Vexta candies come wrapped in plastic inside a cardboard box. The packaging features colorful images of Jojo the clown in different fun scenarios - riding a bike, skipping rope, juggling balls, or making silly faces.

The front of the box has the product name Jojo Vexta in large letters, often with a slogan below like "Candy for Kids" or "Fruit Chews." The flavors are listed in Czech along the bottom. One box contains about 30 individually wrapped candies.

For many Czech adults, the packaging is just as nostalgic and iconic as the candies themselves. The Jojo Vexta boxes feature vintage 1990s graphics that transport Czechs back to their childhood.

Taste and Texture

So what do Jojo Vexta candies actually taste like? Here's a quick flavor breakdown:

Cherry

These bright red candies have a sweet and tart cherry taste. The flavor is authentic, like cherry candy rather than artificial. The chewy texture makes them last a while in your mouth. Cherry is one of the most popular flavors.

Orange

The orange candies have a bright, citrusy flavor that starts out tart and fades to sweet. The chew really brings out the real orange juice taste. The tanginess makes your mouth water.

Lemon

These refreshing yellow candies have a mouth-puckering sour lemon taste. They start off tart and lemony, then end with a hint of sweetness. The chewy texture accentuates the zing.

Apple

The green apple candies have an authentic sour green apple flavor. It's like biting into a crisp, sweet-tart Granny Smith apple. The chew brings out the juice.

Cola

The cola candies look dark brown and have an effervescent flavor that mimics fizzy soda. You get the carbonated fizz along with sweet, almost caramel notes. It's a unique taste for a candy.

Overall, Jojo Vexta candies pack big fruit flavor that lasts as you chew. The flavors taste authentic, not artificial. The chewy texture makes them fun to eat.

Reviews

Jojo Vexta candies have developed a loyal fan base over the decades. Here are some reviews from fans:

Expat Perspective

"As an American living in Prague, I was introduced to Jojo Vexta by my Czech friends. Now I'm hooked! It reminds me of Fruit by the Foot from back home, but better. The packaging takes me back to the 90s in the best way. The candies make a great treat when I'm feeling homesick."

Czech Nostalgia

"Growing up in Czechoslovakia in the 90s, Jojo Vexta was THE candy to snack on. The flavors bring back memories of childhood. I love sharing them now with my kids. The candies and packaging designs are still just as bright and fun as I remember."

Tourist Experience

"While visiting Prague, I picked up a box of Jojo Vexta at a convenience store. The fruit flavors were so intense and delicious! The clown on the box creeped out my friend, but I thought it was retro-cool. Definitely a unique Czech candy to try as a tourist."

The consensus is that Jojo Vexta has a one-of-a-kind flavor and charm that Czechs love nostalgically and expats/tourists enjoy discovering. They make a tasty Czech candy treat!

Where to Buy Jojo Vexta

Wondering where you can get your hands on authentic Jojo Vexta candies? Here are some spots to find them:

Czech Grocery Stores

In the Czech Republic, Jojo Vexta can be found at just about any local grocery store, convenience store, or petrol station. Check the candy aisle for the colorful boxes.

Czech Online Shops

For those outside the Czech Republic, order Jojo Vexta online from Czech food shops like CzechPlease.cz or CzechDeli. They ship worldwide.

Specialty Candy Stores

Some international specialty candy stores carry Jojo Vexta, especially in Europe. You may be able to find it in the Czech section of candy shops in Prague and other major cities.

Czech Expat Shops

If you live in a area with a large Czech expat community, like Chicago or New York City, check Eastern European markets. They sometimes stock nostalgic Czech treats.

With its delightful retro flavor and packaging, Jojo Vexta candy makes a perfect edible souvenir from the Czech Republic. Every bite will transport you back in time.

FAQs

What flavors does Jojo Vexta come in?

The most popular Jojo Vexta flavors are cherry, orange, lemon, apple, and cola. Limited edition flavors like raspberry, pear, and pineapple are sometimes available.

Who makes Jojo Vexta?

Jojo Vexta is made by the Czech candy company Vltava, headquartered in the town of Tábor in the Czech Republic.

Where can I buy Jojo Vexta outside the Czech Republic?

Online shops like CzechPlease.cz ship Jojo Vexta worldwide. Some specialty candy stores and Eastern European food markets may also carry it.

Why does Jojo Vexta have a clown mascot?

The candy's original target audience was Czech children, so the company created a fun, silly clown character named Jojo as its mascot.

Is Jojo Vexta gluten-free?

Yes, Jojo Vexta candies are gluten-free, as they are made without any wheat, barley, rye or related grains.