The role of gelatin in traditional gummy bears
Yes, most traditional gummy bears are made with gelatin. This ingredient is key to giving the candy its signature bouncy, chewy texture. Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen, which is extracted from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals, most commonly pigs and cows. The raw materials are processed through boiling and drying to create a colorless, tasteless substance that forms a gel when cooled. This thermo-reversible property is what allows the hot, liquid gummy mixture to set and harden into its final form.
In the manufacturing process, gelatin is combined with other ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, flavorings, and colorants. The mixture is heated and then poured into molds, typically made from cornstarch, to set for a period of time. Once set, the candies are removed from the molds, cleaned of excess starch, and sometimes coated with a wax or sugar to prevent sticking and add shine. The inclusion of gelatin is what historically defined the gummy candy, but it is also the reason many people with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns avoid them.
Plant-based alternatives to gelatin in gummies
The rising popularity of vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based diets has led to the development of gummy candies that replace gelatin with other gelling agents. These alternatives provide a similar chewy texture without using any animal products, broadening the market for gummy sweets.
Pectin
Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the cell walls of many fruits, especially citrus fruits and apples. When combined with sugar and acid, it forms a gel, making it an excellent alternative to gelatin. Gummies made with pectin tend to have a slightly softer, cleaner bite compared to the classic stretchy texture of gelatin-based gummies. Pectin is a common choice for vegan fruit snacks and gummies.
Agar-Agar
Derived from seaweed, agar-agar is another effective plant-based gelling agent. Agar-agar creates a much firmer gel than gelatin and has a higher melting point. This can result in a gummy with a distinctively different, less elastic texture. Agar is a suitable vegan alternative, though manufacturers must adjust their recipes to account for its different gelling properties.
The manufacturing process and ingredients
Regardless of the gelling agent used, the fundamental process of making gummies involves several stages, often using specialized machinery known as a mogul.
- Compounding: A compounder weighs and mixes all the raw materials, including sweeteners like glucose syrup and sugar, with water and the chosen gelling agent.
- Cooking: The mixture is heated in large vessels to activate the gelling agent and dissolve all ingredients.
- Depositing: The hot liquid candy is deposited into starch-lined molds using a depositing machine. The starch prevents the candy from sticking and absorbs moisture.
- Cooling and Setting: The trays of filled molds are moved to cooling rooms to allow the gummies to set. This process can take over 24 hours.
- Demolding and Coating: Once firm, the candies are removed from the molds. Excess starch is cleaned off, and the gummies are sometimes coated with oil, wax, or a sour mixture.
Comparison table: Gelatin vs. Pectin gummies
| Feature | Gelatin-Based Gummies | Pectin-Based Gummies |
|---|---|---|
| Gelling Agent Source | Animal collagen (typically from pigs or cows) | Fruit cell walls (e.g., citrus peels, apples) |
| Dietary Suitability | Not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or some religious diets (e.g., non-halal/kosher) | Suitable for vegans and vegetarians |
| Texture | Very chewy and elastic, with a distinct “bounce” | Softer, with a cleaner bite and less elasticity |
| Melting Point | Lower, will melt at body temperature | Higher, remains stable at higher temperatures |
| Setting Time | Gels over a longer cooling period | Sets more quickly, often requiring heat to activate |
Conclusion
To definitively answer the question, are gummy bears considered gelatin, the answer is nuanced: while traditionally yes, many modern varieties are not. Most classic gummy candies, including popular brands, rely on animal-derived gelatin for their signature chewy texture. However, consumers can now easily find alternatives using plant-based gelling agents like pectin and agar. For individuals with dietary restrictions or those seeking to avoid animal products, reading the ingredient label is crucial. Fortunately, the variety of choices means that the pleasure of a chewy, flavorful gummy is now accessible to almost everyone.
For more detailed information on gelatin and its production, you can refer to sources like Rousselot, a gelatin manufacturer.
Key takeaways
Traditional Gelatin: Classic gummy bears get their chewiness from animal-derived gelatin. Not All Gummies: Vegan and vegetarian options use plant-based gelling agents like pectin or agar-agar instead. Sourcing: The gelatin comes from collagen found in animal parts, such as pig and cow skin and bones. Check the Label: Always check the ingredient list for specific gelling agents if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. Different Texture: The plant-based alternatives result in a slightly different texture than traditional gelatin-based gummies. Halal/Kosher: Not all gelatin is halal or kosher, but manufacturers offer specialized products to meet these dietary requirements.
