Gummy

Gummy refers to a category of chewy candies with a soft, elastic texture. Traditional gummies are gelatin-based and consist of sugar, water, flavorings, and colorings; the gel network formed by gelatin gives the candy its characteristic chew. In response to dietary preferences, many gummies are now made with alternative gelling agents such as fruit pectin, agar, or starch, producing vegan or allergen-friendly options.

Common forms include gummy bears, gummy worms, rings, and cola bottles, as well as fruit shapes and filled varieties. Sour-coated gummies add tangy coatings, typically citric or malic acid. The production process generally involves hydrating gelatin or other gelling agents, dissolving sugars, adding flavors and colors, molding the mixture, and letting it set before packaging. Some gummies are fortified with vitamins or minerals, marketed as gummy vitamins.

Origins trace to Germany in the early 20th century, with Haribo’s Gummibärchen introduced in 1922 helping to popularize the modern gummy candy worldwide.

Nutritionally, gummies are a confection and tend to be high in sugar and calories for their size. Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, which affects certain dietary restrictions; vegan gummies use plant-based gelling agents. Some products carry kosher or halal certifications depending on the source of gelatin and manufacturing practices.

Storage advice: keep gummies sealed in a cool, dry place to prevent sticking or melting. Shelf life varies by product but generally ranges from several months to about a year.