In the south, we love grape juice. Welch’s was consumed since childhood. Southerners pour a bit of the diluted juice into their iced tea making a ‘punch’ for the younger generation. A lady in the neighborhood makes a terrific Bing cherry jelly (delicious with roast pork!)
She also makes a jalapeno jelly that really rocks your boat.
However, like you, the grape candy is not to be trusted. Bubble gum, gum drops, the grape “penny candy” was avoided at all cost.
Japanese Grape gummies are good.