Sugar confectionery

Sugar confectionery refers to a broad category of sugar-based food items, which are also known as sweets in Great Britain, candy in North America, or lollies in Australia and New Zealand. Sugar confectionery includes candies, chocolates, chewing gums, lollipops, and other sweet items made primarily of sugar.

History

The history of sugar confectionery can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all enjoyed honeyed fruits and nuts. However, the production of sugar confectionery on a large scale did not begin until the Industrial Revolution, when machinery was developed for the mass production of sweets.

Types of Sugar Confectionery

Sugar confectionery is a broad category that includes a variety of different types of sweets. These can be broadly classified into three categories: hard candies, soft candies, and chocolates.

Hard Candies

Hard candies are made by boiling sugar syrup to a high temperature and then allowing it to cool and harden. Examples include lollipops, rock candy, and peppermints.

Soft Candies

Soft candies are made by boiling sugar syrup to a lower temperature than hard candies. This results in a softer, chewier texture. Examples include marshmallows, jelly beans, and gummy bears.

Chocolates

Chocolates are made from cocoa beans, sugar, and often milk. They can be plain or filled with a variety of fillings, such as nuts, fruits, or caramel.

Production

The production of sugar confectionery involves several steps. First, the sugar is boiled with water and other ingredients to create a sugar syrup. The syrup is then cooled and shaped into the desired form. For hard candies, the syrup is boiled to a higher temperature and then allowed to cool and harden. For soft candies, the syrup is boiled to a lower temperature and then shaped while still soft.

Health Effects

While sugar confectionery is enjoyed by many people, it is also associated with a number of health issues. Consuming large amounts of sugar can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and other health problems. As a result, many health organizations recommend limiting the consumption of sugar confectionery.

See Also

• Candy making
• List of candies
• Chocolate
• Candy store