Gummy bear

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Gummy bear is a type of candy that originated in Germany and is now enjoyed worldwide. The candy is characterized by its gummy texture and bear shape, hence the name "gummy bear".

History[edit | edit source]

The gummy bear was first created by the German company Haribo in the early 1920s. The founder of Haribo, Hans Riegel, invented the gummy bear after being inspired by the trained bears he saw at street festivities and markets in his native Germany. The original gummy bear was called the "Dancing Bear" and was larger than the gummy bears we know today.

Production[edit | edit source]

Gummy bears are made using a mixture of sugar, glucose syrup, starch, flavoring, food coloring, citric acid, and gelatin. The mixture is poured into a mold in the shape of a bear, and then cooled until it sets into a gummy consistency. Some gummy bears are coated in sugar or sour powder to add extra flavor.

Varieties[edit | edit source]

There are many different varieties of gummy bears available today. They come in a range of flavors, including strawberry, apple, orange, lemon, and pineapple. Some companies also produce gummy bears with unusual flavors, such as cola, cherry, and grape. In addition to the traditional bear shape, gummy candies can also be found in a variety of other shapes, such as worms, snakes, and fruit.

Health and nutrition[edit | edit source]

While gummy bears are a popular treat, they are high in sugar and offer little in the way of nutrition. Some brands of gummy bears are made with real fruit juice and are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional gummy bears. There are also sugar-free versions available for those who are watching their sugar intake.

Cultural impact[edit | edit source]

Gummy bears have had a significant cultural impact since their creation. They have inspired a number of spin-off products, including a popular animated television series called The Adventures of the Gummy Bears. Gummy bears are also a popular choice for candy buffets at parties and weddings.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD