Yep, they are unpleasant... something like licorice mixed with dishwashing detergent. 
Still, these are not as bad as they might be. Here's the *really* putrid confection:
My mom has talked about them for years and wanted some...a few weeks ago a candy store opened and the owner ordered some for her ...nasty, nasty, nasty....tastes like soap.
Yep, they are unpleasant... something like licorice mixed with dishwashing detergent.
Still, these are not as bad as they might be. Here's the *really* putrid confection: