Jelly bean

Jelly Bean

A jelly bean is a type of candy known for its unique shape and wide variety of flavors. It is a small, bean-shaped sugar confectionery with a soft candy shell and a gel-like interior. Jelly beans are popular around the world and are often associated with holidays such as Easter.

History

The exact origins of the jelly bean are unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by Turkish Delight, a Middle Eastern confection. The modern jelly bean was first mentioned in the United States during the 19th century. By the early 20th century, jelly beans had become a popular treat, especially during Easter due to their egg-like shape.

Composition

Jelly beans are primarily made from sugar, corn syrup, and starch. The outer shell is created by a process called "panning," where the beans are tumbled in a rotating drum while a sugar solution is added. This process is repeated until the desired thickness of the shell is achieved. The interior is made from a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients that give the jelly bean its chewy texture.

Flavors

Jelly beans are renowned for their wide array of flavors, which can range from traditional fruit flavors like cherry, lemon, and orange, to more exotic and novelty flavors such as popcorn, licorice, and even spicy varieties. The flavoring is typically added to the interior of the jelly bean, while the shell may also be flavored or colored to match.

Production Process

The production of jelly beans involves several steps:

1. Mixing: Ingredients for the jelly center are mixed together to form a slurry. 2. Molding: The slurry is poured into starch molds to form the bean shape. 3. Drying: The molded beans are dried to form a chewy center. 4. Panning: The beans are placed in a rotating drum where sugar and flavoring are added to form the shell. 5. Polishing: The beans are polished to give them a shiny appearance.

Cultural Significance

Jelly beans have become a staple in American culture, particularly during Easter. They are often used in Easter egg hunts and as decorations in Easter baskets. Additionally, jelly beans gained political significance in the United States when President Ronald Reagan famously kept a jar of jelly beans on his desk in the Oval Office.

Also see

• Candy
• Turkish Delight
• Easter
• Confectionery

Confectionery Overview
	Confectionery refers to sweets that are typically rich in sugar and enjoyed as desserts or snacks. This category includes a variety of treats such as: Candy - Chocolate - Chewing gum - Marzipan - Marshmallows - Licorice - Nougat