Freeze dried sweets are the latest obsession in the UK confectionery scene, bringing bright colours, irresistible crunch and a sense of playful nostalgia. Two of the most talked-about brands leading this trend are Igloo and Bebeto. Both have embraced the power of freeze drying to turn soft, chewy sweets into crisp, airy treats that deliver a burst of flavour with every bite. Yet while they share the same process, their approaches and results differ in fascinating ways. The question is, which is better?
Brand identities and what they offer
Igloo has built its reputation on fun, colour and creativity. The brand takes classic sweets and reimagines them through freeze drying, giving familiar favourites an exciting, crunchy twist. Each pouch feels like a pick and mix adventure, bursting with different textures and flavours. Bebeto, meanwhile, is a long-standing name in the world of gummies and jellies. Its foray into freeze drying has focused on specific fruity favourites, such as peach rings and watermelon slices, keeping flavour consistency and simplicity at the heart of its approach.
Texture and crunch factor
Texture is where both brands truly stand out, but in slightly different ways. Igloo’s sweets are known for their sharp, clean crunch that shatters lightly before melting into pure sweetness. They are designed to surprise, delight and provide that addictive snap people love to record and share. Bebeto’s freeze dried sweets, on the other hand, retain a touch of their gummy softness beneath the crisp shell, giving a slightly gentler crunch. Some customers find this more approachable, while others prefer the dramatic crack that Igloo’s treats deliver.
Flavour and intensity
Flavour is another key differentiator. Igloo focuses on variety, with each bag containing a mix of flavours that range from tangy fruit to fizzy cola. This makes every handful a new experience. The freeze drying process intensifies these flavours, making them brighter and bolder. Bebeto’s approach is more targeted. Each variety focuses on a single flavour profile, allowing the sweetness and fruitiness to shine in a consistent way. Its peach rings, for instance, are full of juicy, summery notes, while the blue raspberry flavour delivers an unmistakable tang.
Visual appeal
When it comes to looks, Igloo’s sweets steal the spotlight. Their vivid colours and playful shapes are instantly eye-catching. Each bag looks like a celebration of sugary creativity, and the sweets themselves almost sparkle thanks to the light texture created by freeze drying. Bebeto’s products, in contrast, stay true to their original forms, keeping the shape and size of the classic gummies but with a subtle matt finish. They may not be as flamboyant, but they retain a certain simplicity that fans of traditional sweets appreciate.
Ingredients and dietary suitability
Both Igloo and Bebeto use classic confectionery ingredients such as sugar, glucose syrup and flavourings, but there are differences worth noting. Igloo’s sweets often contain both pork and beef gelatine, meaning they are not suitable for vegetarians. Bebeto, however, has a range of halal-certified options, which makes their freeze dried sweets more inclusive for certain dietary needs. Neither brand is fully vegan, as the freeze drying process relies on the original sweet base, but Bebeto’s transparency on labelling has earned positive feedback from its fans.
Price and availability
In terms of accessibility, Igloo’s freeze dried sweets are generally sold in larger 90g pouches, with retail prices around £4 to £6 depending on the flavour and retailer. Bebeto’s freeze dried sweets come in smaller 35g bags, usually priced around £2 to £3, making them a more affordable entry point for those new to freeze dried treats. Igloo has strong visibility in gift shops, markets and online retailers, while Bebeto’s products are more commonly found in supermarkets and wholesale sweet stores.
Social media buzz
If there’s one area where Igloo shines, it’s in social media appeal. The brand has become a viral sensation thanks to its vibrant visuals and satisfying crunch. Videos of people biting into Igloo sweets have been viewed millions of times, helping to cement the brand as the face of the UK freeze dried trend. Bebeto has a quieter online presence but benefits from strong brand recognition thanks to its established reputation in the gummy sweet market. Igloo brings the fun and spectacle, while Bebeto brings familiarity and trust.
Customer experience
Customer reviews reveal what people love about both brands. Igloo fans often mention the excitement of trying new combinations, describing the sweets as crunchy, fun and surprisingly moreish. They love the variety and how each piece offers a slightly different experience. Bebeto’s customers praise the authentic fruit flavours and balanced sweetness, appreciating how the freeze drying enhances the taste without making it too sugary. For those who prefer a slightly softer bite, Bebeto’s texture wins favour.
Value for money
Value depends on what you are looking for. Igloo’s products are priced as a premium novelty, perfect for gifting or sharing during special occasions. Bebeto’s smaller portions and lower prices make them better for everyday snacking or for those who want to try freeze dried sweets without spending too much. In terms of cost per gram, Bebeto generally offers better value, but Igloo delivers a more luxurious, high-impact experience.
The science behind their success
Both brands rely on the same scientific principle of sublimation to achieve that signature lightness. During freeze drying, frozen water in the sweets turns directly into vapour under low pressure, leaving behind a crisp structure full of air pockets. This is what makes both Igloo and Bebeto sweets crunchy and airy. However, Igloo’s process seems to focus on amplifying texture and visual appeal, while Bebeto’s method leans toward preserving fruit flavour and colour balance.
Shelf life and freshness
One of the advantages of freeze drying is extended shelf life. Both Igloo and Bebeto sweets remain fresh for months when stored correctly, as the lack of moisture prevents spoilage. Igloo’s resealable bags help keep the sweets crunchy between snacking sessions, while Bebeto’s individually sealed portions are convenient for lunchboxes and travel. Both brands understand the importance of keeping that crispness intact, and their packaging reflects this perfectly.
Popularity and perception
Igloo’s name has become almost synonymous with freeze dried sweets in the UK. Its colourful branding, innovative products and social media success have made it the go-to brand for those looking to experience the trend. Bebeto’s reputation for quality and consistency, however, gives it strong credibility, especially among long-time sweet lovers. In short, Igloo leads the conversation, but Bebeto holds its own with loyal fans who prefer substance over spectacle.
Which one is better?
Choosing between Igloo and Bebeto depends on your priorities. If you want excitement, variety and that unmistakable crunch that has become a social media favourite, Igloo is the clear winner. Its sweets are bold, creative and full of energy. If you prefer reliable flavours, a softer texture and good value for money, Bebeto is a great choice. It may not have the same online buzz, but it delivers quality and enjoyment in every bag.
Final thoughts
Igloo and Bebeto both bring something special to the freeze dried sweet market. Igloo represents the fun, artistic side of confectionery, where colour and crunch come together to create something unforgettable. Bebeto offers focused flavours, affordability and inclusivity, appealing to those who want sweetness with a little more tradition. The truth is, there’s room for both in the sweet jar. Whether you crave the vibrant pop of an Igloo pick and mix or the juicy punch of a Bebeto peach ring, both brands prove that freeze dried treats are here to stay, keeping the UK’s sweet tooth thoroughly entertained.
