Candy corn: a halloween treat or a bug-filled nightmare?
What To Know
- While some people may find the use of gelatin off-putting, it is important to note that it is a safe and widely used ingredient in many foods, including marshmallows, gummy candies, and jello.
- Candy corn is made with a high proportion of sugar and corn syrup, which gives it a very sweet taste.
- The white part of candy corn is made from sugar and corn syrup, just like the rest of the candy.
Candy corn, the iconic Halloween candy, has been a beloved treat for generations. However, a persistent rumor has circulated for years: is candy corn really made with bugs? This question has sparked both curiosity and disgust, prompting many to wonder about the true ingredients behind this sugary confection.
The Truth Behind the Rumors
The answer to this question is a resounding no. Candy corn does not contain any insects or bug-derived ingredients. The vibrant colors and sweet flavor of candy corn come from a combination of sugar, corn syrup, water, and food coloring.
The rumor likely originated from the fact that some natural red food colorings were once derived from insects, specifically the cochineal insect. However, candy corn has never used these types of colorings. The red color in candy corn comes from artificial food coloring, specifically Red 40.
Ingredients in Candy Corn
The following are the ingredients used in Brach’s Candy Corn, one of the most popular brands:
- Sugar
- Corn syrup
- Water
- Gelatin
- Salt
- Artificial flavors
- Artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6)
As you can see, there are no insects or bug-derived ingredients on this list.
Candy Corn Manufacturing Process
Candy corn is made through a process called extrusion. The ingredients are heated and mixed together, then forced through a mold to create the familiar triangular shape. The candy is then cut into individual pieces and coated with a thin layer of confectioner’s glaze.
The Role of Gelatin
Gelatin is an animal-derived ingredient used in candy corn to give it a chewy texture. Gelatin is made from collagen, a protein found in the skin and bones of animals. While some people may find the use of gelatin off-putting, it is important to note that it is a safe and widely used ingredient in many foods, including marshmallows, gummy candies, and jello.
The Verdict: No Bugs in Candy Corn
Based on the ingredients and manufacturing process, it is clear that candy corn does not contain any bugs or insect-derived ingredients. The rumor that candy corn is made with bugs is simply not true.
Enjoy Candy Corn Guilt-Free
So, the next time you enjoy a handful of candy corn, you can do so guilt-free, knowing that it is a bug-free treat. However, if you are concerned about the use of animal-derived gelatin, you can opt for vegan candy corn, which is made with plant-based alternatives to gelatin.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Why is candy corn so sweet?
A: Candy corn is made with a high proportion of sugar and corn syrup, which gives it a very sweet taste.
Q: What is the white part of candy corn made of?
A: The white part of candy corn is made from sugar and corn syrup, just like the rest of the candy. However, it is not coated with confectioner’s glaze, which gives it a slightly different texture.
Q: How long does candy corn last?
A: Candy corn has a shelf life of about 12 months. However, it is best to store it in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming stale or melted.
Q: Is candy corn gluten-free?
A: Yes, candy corn is gluten-free.
Q: Is candy corn vegan?
A: No, candy corn is not vegan because it contains gelatin, which is derived from animals. However, there are vegan candy corn options available.
Q: What is the nutritional value of candy corn?
A: Candy corn is high in sugar and calories but low in nutrients. One serving (about 35 pieces) contains approximately 150 calories, 30 grams of sugar, and 0 grams of protein.