Core Ingredients of Hi-Chew
At its heart, the beloved Japanese candy Hi-Chew relies on a simple but carefully crafted formula to achieve its signature texture and intense, long-lasting flavor. The core ingredients are the foundation of this popular sweet, from its chewy body to its vibrant taste. These components are combined using a special sugar crystal control technology developed by the manufacturer, Morinaga & Company.
Sugars and Sweeteners
- Glucose Syrup and Sugar: These two are the primary sweeteners that form the bulk of the candy and contribute to its chewy, malleable consistency. The specific ratio and processing of these sugars are crucial to achieving Hi-Chew's unique, gum-like texture that can be swallowed.
Fats for Texture
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil: This is a key ingredient for developing the creamy, smooth mouthfeel that distinguishes Hi-Chew from other taffy-like candies. The fat content prevents the candy from becoming overly hard or sticky, ensuring a pleasant, consistent chew from start to finish.
The Chewy Element: Gelatin
- Gelatin (Pork): The majority of Hi-Chew products contain gelatin, which is derived from pork. It is this ingredient that provides the signature springy, yet soft, chewiness. The inclusion of pork gelatin means that standard Hi-Chew is not suitable for vegetarian, vegan, halal, or kosher diets. However, as noted in the search results, there are some exceptions, such as the American Hi-Chew Bites, which are explicitly made without gelatin.
Flavor and Color
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: Hi-Chew is renowned for its authentic fruit taste, which comes from a combination of concentrated fruit juices and both natural and artificial flavorings. The use of concentrated juices helps to deliver a flavor that intensifies with every chew.
- Colors: A variety of concentrated fruit and vegetable juices, and other natural colors like beta-carotene, are used to give each flavor its vibrant hue. The precise combination of ingredients, from fruit juices to colorings, varies by flavor.
Hi-Chew and Dietary Considerations
Understanding the ingredients in Hi-Chew is important for those with specific dietary needs or restrictions. While the candy is free of some common allergens, others are present, and the gelatin source is a critical factor for many consumers.
Gluten-Free Status
As of 2012, all Hi-Chew products were officially certified as gluten-free. Before this, they were processed in a facility that also handled gluten-containing products, but production moved to dedicated gluten-free facilities. This makes them a safe option for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Vegan and Vegetarian Concerns
Because most Hi-Chew candies contain gelatin derived from pork, they are not a suitable option for those following a vegetarian, vegan, kosher, or halal diet. The exception of Hi-Chew Bites, which do not contain gelatin, offers a limited alternative for certain diets, though these are only available in the US.
Allergen Information
Most Hi-Chew varieties contain soybeans and are manufactured in facilities that also process milk. It is crucial for consumers with soy or dairy allergies to check the packaging of individual flavors, as this information is subject to change and can vary by product. The manufacturer, Morinaga, has confirmed that Hi-Chew is free of peanuts and is not produced in a peanut facility.
Comparison: Hi-Chew vs. Other Chewy Candies
Hi-Chew is often compared to Western chewy candies like Starburst and Mamba due to their similar consistency. However, a closer look reveals key differences in their makeup and texture.
| Feature | Hi-Chew | Starburst | Mamba |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Japan | United States | Germany |
| Key Texturizing Agent | Primarily pork gelatin | Corn syrup, sugar, vegetable oil | Glucose syrup, sugar, vegetable fat |
| Flavoring | Combination of concentrated fruit juices and natural/artificial flavors | Juice from concentrate, natural and artificial flavors | Concentrated fruit juices, natural and artificial flavors |
| Overall Chew | Uniquely soft, springy, and long-lasting | Softer, less chewy than Hi-Chew | Dense and firm chew, similar to taffy |
| Outer Coating | White, double-layer structure | None | None |
| Suitability for Vegan Diet | No (contains gelatin) | No (contains gelatin) | No (contains gelatin) |
The Art and Science Behind the Chew
The unique texture of Hi-Chew is the result of decades of development by Morinaga. The manufacturing process involves combining a cooked base of the core ingredients with fruit concentrates. This mixture is then cooled before being extruded into long ropes, or "snakes". The candy's two-layer structure is a closely guarded secret of the company. After forming, the ropes are cut into individual chewlets and wrapped. This meticulous process ensures a consistent quality and experience, from the first satisfying chew to the final burst of fruit flavor.
The Birth of Hi-Chew
The candy's origin traces back to the 1950s when Morinaga sought to create a swallowable chewing gum alternative, as spitting out gum was considered rude in Japan. The first version, called 'Chewlets,' was based on their chewy caramel recipe. The modern Hi-Chew was born in 1975 after further refinement of the formula, combining the satisfying chew of gum with a candy that completely dissolves. This innovative approach cemented its place as a beloved Japanese confectionery, and its popularity has since expanded globally.
Conclusion
In summary, Hi-Chew is a carefully engineered candy crafted from a base of glucose syrup, sugar, and hydrogenated palm kernel oil, with its signature chewiness coming from pork-derived gelatin. Real fruit concentrates, combined with natural and artificial flavors, give it an intense and authentic fruit taste. While the company has made the candy gluten-free since 2012, its use of gelatin makes it unsuitable for strict vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal diets. Understanding what are high chews made of allows consumers to make informed choices based on dietary restrictions and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this iconic Japanese treat.
