A Chewy Journey Through History, Types and Health Considerations Of Gummy Candy

Every confectionery all over the universe can attest to the fact that the gummy candy has been delighting taste buds for generations. Gummy candy is like the Big Ben of candy and sweets in the confectionery world.

If you fancy sweets like we do then you definitely know that gummy candy has a specific type of chewy which is what differentiates them from all the other candy.

It derives this chewy feature from the gelatine recipe which makes the candy limited to sweet tooth with vegan and vegetarian diet resticrions.

For some its the chewy texture that delights them while for others it has to be the different shapes, colours and flavours that the gummy candy fruity treats come with that delight the hearts of any candy lovers worldwide.

Beyond the beautiful colour, gelatin-based recipe and fruity flavours there's more to these chewy confections than meets the eye.

Let's take a deep dive into the fascinating world of gummy candies!

Gummy Candy: A Bite of History

Gummy candy still remain to be the oldest sweets in history of UK. Infact the gummy candies form the largest percentage of the Buzz Sweets retro sweets collection page.

The gummy candy history in the UK dates back to 1864, so gummy candies are 160 years as of 2024 as Buzz Sweets we would like to wish gummy candies a happy 160th birthday.

Fryers of Lancashire is the name of the confectionery company that is accredited to introducing the world's first gelatin-based shaped candy with rather peculiarly named "Unclaimed Babies." This odd moniker didn't stick around for long, thankfully!

But it wasn't until the 1920s that gummy candies really took off. In Germany, a candy maker named Hans Riegel started experimenting with gelatin-based sweets. His company, which he dubbed Haribo (an acronym of HAns RIegel BOnn), would go on to create the iconic gummy bear.

By the time World War II rolled around, Riegel's little candy company was churning out tons of gummies daily, employing over 400 people!

What Makes Gummy Candy Chewy?

We have to agree that gummy candies have a rather peculiar texture as compared to other types of candies. This chewy and squish characteristics makes the gummy candy desirable and leaves an insatibale desire in your taste buds that makes you crave for more and more.

So, what exactly goes into making these chewy delights? The main ingredients are a sweet symphony of corn syrup, sucrose, gelatin, starch, and water. Toss in some food coloring, flavoring agents, and a dash of food acids like citric or malic acid for that signature tang, and you've got yourself a gummy candy!

The production process is a bit like a delicious science experiment. The ingredients are mixed, heated, molded into fun shapes, and then cooled. It's this process that gives gummies their unique texture – firm yet chewy, with just the right amount of bounce.

For our veggie friends, there are even gelatin-free options made with plant-based ingredients like pectin or starch. Who says you need to miss out on the gummy goodness just because you're avoiding animal products?

How Many Types Of Gummy Candies Are There?

Gummy candies come in a veritable menagerie of shapes and styles. Of course, there's the classic gummy bear, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Jelly babies have been a UK favorite since 1918. Across the pond, cola bottle sweets are a popular choice, mimicking the shape of the iconic Coca-Cola bottle.

Australia has its own gummy specialty – red frogs. These amphibious treats have been hopping off shelves since the 1930s. And let's not forget about gummy worms, those wiggly delights that have been grossing out parents and delighting kids since 1981.

Some gummy shapes are a bit more... unconventional. In 2004, Trolli introduced roadkill-themed gummies in the US. Shaped like flattened animals, these controversial candies didn't last long on shelves after animal rights groups raised concerns. Sometimes, candy makers can get a little too creative!

Are Gummy Bears Healthy Candy?

Now, let's address the elephant in the room – are gummy candies good for you? Well, like most sweet treats, they're best enjoyed in moderation.

On the plus side, gummies are a quick source of energy thanks to their high carbohydrate content. They can give you a little mood boost too – who doesn't feel a bit happier after a sweet treat? And sharing a bag of gummies with friends can be a fun social experience.

But let's not sugar-coat it (pun intended) – gummy candies are high in sugar and low in nutrients. A typical serving packs about 140 calories and a whopping 20 grams of sugar. That's a lot of empty calories with not much nutritional benefit.

There are also some specific health concerns to keep in mind. The chewy texture that makes gummies so fun can also make them a choking hazard, especially for young children. And all that sugar isn't doing your teeth any favours. Some scientists are even looking into adding xylitol, a tooth-friendly sugar substitute, to gummies to combat tooth decay.

On a more positive note, vitamin gummies have become increasingly popular in recent years. These offer a tastier way to get your daily vitamins, though they shouldn't replace a balanced diet.

Choosing and Storing Your Gummy Candy

When you're picking out gummies, look for candies that are soft and chewy, not hard or overly sticky. They should have vibrant colors and a fruity aroma that makes your mouth water. And of course, they should taste great – no weird chemical aftertastes allowed!

Once you've got your gummy goodie bag, store it in a cool, dry place. An airtight container is ideal for keeping your gummies fresh and preventing them from sticking together. Properly stored, gummies can last up to a year. But let's be honest, who can resist them for that long?

Beyond the Candy Bowl

Gummy candies aren't just for snacking. Creative folks have found all sorts of fun uses for these versatile sweets. They make great cake decorations, adding a pop of color and a chewy surprise to desserts.

Some people even use them in science experiments – ever seen what happens when you soak a gummy bear in water overnight?

The Future of Gummies

The gummy candy is produced from a gelatine recipe but modern confectioneries are finding ways to improve the recipe and make the gummies better without using gelatine for the vegan and vegetarians.

As more people become health-conscious, candy makers are adapting. We're also seeing a trend towards "better-for-you" gummies made with natural ingredients, lower sugar content, and alternative sweeteners like allulose or monk fruit extract. These healthier options aim to give you that gummy goodness without the sugar crash.

Experience Gummy Candy With Buzz Sweets

From their humble beginnings as "Unclaimed Babies" to the global phenomenon they are today, gummy candies have come a long way.

They've survived world wars, adapted to changing dietary needs and even ventured into the vitamin aisle. 

Buzz Sweets is giving you a chance to partake in this sweet histoy. Have a taste of not only the full gummy candy experience but also a great csutomer service all the way to your doorestep through free delivery, awesome cash n carry deals and a pick n mix experience with the differenty types of gummy candies.

Create your own movie night charcuterie board using the different types of gummy candy at Buzz Sweets: Gummy Bears, Jelly Babies and Cola Bottles. A solo experience or having a party? Buzz Sweets has you covered with great deals for buying bulk.  

Whether you're a fan of classic bears, wiggly worms, or innovative new flavours, there's a gummy out there for everyone.

So the next time you pop a gummy in your mouth, take a moment to appreciate the history, science, and creativity behind that little burst of sweetness. Just remember – like all good things in life, moderation is key.

Enjoy your gummies responsibly as part of a balanced diet, and they'll keep bringing you chewy joy for years to come!