The US made stuff is not real licorice. mostly HFCS with artificial flavoring.
You find the real stuff in European countries and online. I find my favorites at dutchsweets.com and you can also find it at World Market and on Amazon.
I was warned about this problem years ago by my father’s cardiologist so I stick to only a few pieces, once in a while.
My favorite licorice is Panda brand from Finland...so good!
Sometimes you can find it in regular grocery stores, and organic food stores usually have it.
Their Raspberry “licorice” is also delicious.