The Manufacturing Secret: Starch as a Release Agent
The true identity of the 'flour' on Jelly Babies is revealed during the manufacturing process, a method known as starch mogul depositing. In this technique, a liquid candy mixture, comprising sugar, glucose, gelatin, water, and flavourings, is poured into pre-shaped molds. Crucially, these molds are impressions made into a tray filled with cornstarch or maize starch. This starch serves a dual purpose. First, it acts as the mold itself, providing the soft, impressionable material for the jelly mixture to set against.
Second, the starch acts as a desiccant, or drying agent, drawing moisture from the surface of the newly formed jellies. This drying action creates a thin skin-like layer on the outside, preventing the sticky mixture from adhering to the mold. Once the jelly has set and is removed from the starch, a residual coating of the powder remains, providing the familiar dusting we see in the packet.
More Than Just a Non-Stick Coating
While preventing stickiness is the primary role of the starch dusting, it also plays a part in the Jelly Baby's final texture and taste experience. It provides a slight textural contrast to the soft, chewy interior. The starchy surface is a defining feature of UK-manufactured Jelly Babies, distinguishing them from their uncoated counterparts found in some other regions, like Australia. This difference highlights how a simple manufacturing step can create a distinct product characteristic.
The Difference Between Starch and Sugar Dusting
Some other sweets might be coated in icing sugar for a different finish, but for Jelly Babies, starch is the functional choice. Icing sugar is finer and can easily dissolve with moisture, potentially turning sticky again, whereas starch is more robust and acts purely as a release and separating agent.
The Role of Starch in Confectionery
Beyond Jelly Babies, cornstarch is a cornerstone of the confectionery industry for several reasons. It provides body and texture to many jelly and gummy sweets, and its thickening properties are vital for fillings and pastes. The starch mogul process allows for the creation of intricate shapes with ease and efficiency, making it a reliable and economical method for mass-producing sweets.
Starch vs. Sugar Coated Candies
| Feature | Starch-Coated Candies (like UK Jelly Babies) | Sugar-Coated Candies (like Sour Gummies) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Prevent sticking during molding and packaging | Provide a sweet or sour flavour and a different texture |
| Powder Type | Maize Starch / Cornflour | Icing Sugar, sometimes with Citric Acid |
| Texture | Dry, slightly rough exterior | Gritty or crystalline exterior |
| Manufacturing Method | Starch mogul process | Tumbler or panning process |
| Taste | Neutral, allowing the jelly's flavor to dominate | Contributes a prominent sweet or sour taste |
| Moisture Absorption | Highly absorbent, helps set and dry the candy | Less absorbent, can clump together if exposed to moisture |
The Legacy of the Jelly Baby's Coating
The use of starch in manufacturing dates back to the early days of confectionery. The starch mogul process was developed in the late 19th century and has been a staple ever since. It provides consistency and ensures that every Jelly Baby, from the 'Brilliant' red to the 'Boofuls' green, is perfectly formed and easy to handle. For Maynards Bassetts, the prominent UK manufacturer, this method has been essential in preserving the iconic character of their sweet. While alternative methods and ingredients exist, the starch dusting remains a part of the classic Jelly Baby's identity.
Conclusion: The Flour's Functionality
In summary, the 'flour' on Jelly Babies is not a flavorful addition but a functional one. It is maize starch, a byproduct of an efficient manufacturing process designed to prevent stickiness. It gives the sweet its distinctive dry, non-sticky exterior, a crucial element of the Jelly Baby experience for many consumers. From serving as a mold release agent to keeping the contents of a bag from clumping, this simple, edible powder plays a sophisticated role in delivering the perfect chewy treat.
Visit the Wikipedia article on Jelly Babies for more information on their history and manufacturing.
Jelly Babies: A Confectionery Delight
The jelly baby's journey from liquid mixture to finished sweet is a great example of food engineering. The next time you enjoy one, you can appreciate the science behind its construction, right down to the fine dusting that makes it possible.
