Gummy Bear Ingredients

Common Ingredients Found in Gummy Bears

Gummy bears are typically made of gelatin, citric acid, sugar, fruit juice, corn syrup, flavoring and starch. These ingredients combine to give gummy bears their chewy texture and sweet taste.

If you want to learn about what the ingredients in you favorite brands are, keep reading, or learn how to make gummies at home!

If you are trying to perfect a recipe or manufacture gummy candy commercially and you want a deep dive in to gummy bear ingredients see these articles:

• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Gelling Agents
• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes
• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Natural and Artificial Flavorings
• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Natural and Synthetic Colorings
• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Acids
• Gummy Bear Ingredients: Stabilizers
• Bitter Blockers for Medicated Gummy Bears

Haribo Gummy Bears ingredients

Haribo Gummy Bears are a popular confectionery item known for their unique texture and variety of flavors. The primary ingredients include glucose syrup, sugar, gelatin, dextrose, fruit juice from concentrate, citric acid, fruit and plant concentrates (such as apple, bilberry, carrot, safflower, spirulina, and elderberry), natural flavorings, and beeswax for coating. Haribo GoldBears are also colored using fruit and plant extracts and have a finishing glaze of beeswax and carnauba wax.

Haribo GoldBears ingredients are:

• Glucose Syrup (from Wheat or Corn)
• Sugar
• Gelatin
• Dextrose (from Wheat or Corn)
• Citric Acid
• Artificial and Natural Flavors
• Palm Oil
• Palm Kernel Oil
• Carnauba Wax
• White Beeswax
• Yellow Beeswax
• Yellow 5
• Red 40
• Blue 1

Albanese Gummi Bears ingredients

Albanese Gummi Bears, boast a range of flavors and colors. Ingredients include corn syrup, sugar, gelatin, citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, pectin, vegetable oil (coconut, canola), and carnauba leaf wax for coating. They feature colors derived from fruits and vegetables, enhancing their appeal.

Albanese 12 Flavor Gummi Bears ingredients are:

• Corn Syrup
• Sugar
• Water
• Gelatin
• Citric Acid
• Natural and Artificial Flavors
• Pectin
• Vegetable Oil (Coconut, Canola)
• Carnauba Leaf Wax (to Prevent Sticking)
• FD&C Yellow 5
• FD&C Red 40
• FD&C Blue
• FD&C Yellow 6

Trolli gummy worms ingredients

Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers Ingredients

Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers are known for their tangy taste and chewy texture. Ingredients include corn syrup, sugar, gelatin, fumaric acid, citric acid, lactic acid, calcium lactate, sodium lactate, natural and artificial flavors, and food colorings like Yellow 5, Red 40, and Blue 1.

Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers ingredients are: 

• Corn Syrup
• Sugar
• Gelatin
• Modified Food Starch (Corn)
• Fumaric Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Citric Acid
• Sodium Citrate
• Calcium Lactate
• Sodium Lactate
• Natural and Artificial Flavors
• Titanium Dioxide (Color)
• Red 40
• Yellow 5
• Yellow 6
• Blue 1

 

Black Forest Gummy Bears ingredients

Black Forest Gummy Bears are distinguished by their use of real fruit juice. Key ingredients include organic sugar, gelatin, agar, citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, fruit and vegetable juices for color).

Black Forest Gummy Bear ingredients are:

• Organic Tapioca Syrup
• Organic Cane Sugar
• Gelatin
• Organic Lemon Juice Concentrate
• Organic Tapioca Starch Organic Potato Starch
• Agar
• Colors (Black Carrot Juice, Blackcurrant Juice, Turmeric, Carrot Juice, Purple Sweet Potato Juice, Cherry Juice, Radish Juice)
• Citric Acid
• Organic Sunflower Oil
• Natural Flavors
• Organic Carnauba Wax

Candy Pros Melt & Pour Blue Raspberry Gummy Cubes

Candy Pros Melt & Pour Blue Raspberry Gummy Cubes are a popular gummy base that vitamin gummy and specialty gummy manufacturers melt and make custom gummies with.

Melt & Pour Blue Raspberry Gummy Cubes ingredients are:

• Corn syrup
• sugar
• beef gelatin
• lactic acid
• citric acid
• pectin
• artificial flavor and color
•  FD&C Blue 1
• vegetable oil
• carnauba wax

Gelling Agent Ingredients in Gummy Candy Manufacturing

Gummy bears are a chewy confectionery delight largely due to gelling agents that serve as the foundation for their structure and texture. Common gelling agents used in their manufacture include gelatin, pectin, starch, agar, carrageenan, and alginate. Gelatin, derived from animal collagen, is the most traditional agent, imparting the classic chewy texture. Pectin, a plant-based alternative sourced from citrus fruits and apples, caters to vegetarians and provides a similar chew with a slightly different bite. Starches from corn, potato, or tapioca offer a cost-effective thickening option and yield a distinct tender texture. Agar, extracted from seaweed, provides a firmer vegan-friendly gel, while carrageenan, also seaweed-sourced, lends a softer, more elastic texture. Lastly, alginate, from brown seaweeds, forms a heat-reversible gel, useful in products requiring thermal stability. Each of these gelling agents plays a crucial role in achieving the desired consistency, mouthfeel, and stability of gummy candies, allowing for a vast range of textures to match consumer preferences.

Read more about Gummy Bear Gelling Agents

Sugars and Sweeteners in Gummy Candy Manufacturing

In the manufacturing of gummy bears, sugars and sweeteners are pivotal ingredients that determine not only the sweetness profile but also impact the texture and mouthfeel. Common sugars used include sucrose, glucose syrup, and fructose. Sucrose, or table sugar, provides the primary sweetness and bulk, while glucose syrup acts as a sweetener that also imparts a smooth and pliable texture to the gummies. Fructose, often sourced from corn, offers a high sweetness intensity and can influence the perception of fruit flavors. Additionally, sugar alcohols like sorbitol and xylitol may be used as reduced-calorie options, contributing to the candy's soft texture and moisture retention. Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, or stevia are also deployed in sugar-free variants, offering the sweetness without the added calories. These sweetening agents play a multifaceted role as flavor enhancers, texturizers, and humectants (moisture preservers), making them indispensable in crafting the beloved gummy bear treats.

Read more about Gummy Bear Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes

Sugar-Free Gummy Bears: Alternative Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes

In the realm of gummy candy manufacturing, alternative sweeteners and sugar substitutes play a crucial role, particularly in catering to health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions. Among these alternatives, sugar alcohols such as maltitol, sorbitol, and xylitol are prevalent due to their lower glycemic index and calorie content, providing sweetness while contributing to a soft texture and extended shelf life as humectants. High-intensity sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, and stevia extract deliver the desired sweetness levels with minimal to no calories, making them suitable for sugar-free and dietetic gummy bears. Additionally, natural sweeteners like agave syrup, honey, and fruit juice concentrates are increasingly popular for their clean-label appeal, adding a subtle variety of flavors and a perception of wholesomeness. Polydextrose and isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs) are other sugar substitutes that can double as dietary fibers, enhancing the functional aspect of gummy candies. These alternatives to traditional sugars enable manufacturers to tailor gummy bear products to a multitude of dietary preferences while maintaining the enjoyable sweetness and pleasing texture that define the confection.

Read more about Gummy Bear Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes

Natural and Artificial Flavorings in Gummy Bears

In the vibrant world of gummy bear confections, flavorings are as crucial as texture. These flavoring agents can be derived from natural sources, such as fruits, plants, and spices, or created artificially to mimic such tastes. Common natural flavorings include fruit juice concentrates and purees from strawberries, raspberries, oranges, and lemons that lend authenticity to the gummy bears and resonate with consumers seeking more natural product profiles. Natural extracts like vanilla, peppermint, and cinnamon are also used to infuse the candies with traditional flavors. Additionally, essential oils such as lime, anise, and eucalyptus provide potent and distinctive natural tastes.

On the artificial side, synthetic flavor compounds like ethyl maltol or vanillin offer intense and consistent flavors that are often more cost-effective than their natural counterparts. These can precisely replicate tastes ranging from bubblegum to watermelon, without the seasonal variability or supply limitations of natural flavor sources. Artificial flavorings are especially versatile, enabling the creation of fantastical and unique flavors that go beyond the scope of what is typically found in nature.

Whether natural or artificial, flavorings in gummy candy manufacturing do more than just satisfy taste buds; they are crucial in defining the identity of the candy, enhancing its appeal, and invoking the emotional connection between the consumer and the sweet treat. They work synergistically with sugars and acids (like citric or malic acid) to balance sweetness and tanginess, ensuring each gummy bear delivers a harmonious burst of flavor. Flavorings contribute to the taste experience that can turn a simple snack into a memorable indulgence, driving brand loyalty and consumer preference.

Read more about Gummy Bear Flavorings

Gummy Bear Natural and Synthetic Coloring Ingredients

The allure of gummy bears is not just in their taste but also in their vibrant appearance, which is chiefly attributed to the use of both natural and synthetic colorings. Natural colorings include fruit and vegetable juices, such as those derived from black carrots, beets, and elderberry, which impart hues ranging from deep purple to red and are favored for their clean-label properties. Another natural source is turmeric, used to create shades of yellow, and spirulina extract, offering a brilliant blue. Natural colors like these are often chosen for their perceived health benefits and to meet the demand for products free from artificial additives.

In contrast, synthetic colorings provide a wider spectrum of bright and consistent colors that are stable under various conditions. Common synthetic colorings in gummy manufacturing include Red #40, which gives a vibrant red; Yellow #5 and Yellow #6, which produce different shades of yellow; Blue #1, adding a distinct blue color; and Green #3, used for a variety of green hues. Synthetic colorings are known for their intensity and cost-effectiveness, allowing for the creation of an eye-catching assortment of gummy bears that appeal to both young and older demographics.

The role of colorings in gummy candy manufacturing extends beyond mere visual appeal; they can also influence the perception of flavor. Consumers often associate certain colors with specific tastes, and colorings can play into these expectations to enhance the overall sensory experience. A strategically colored gummy bear can create anticipation for its flavor, such as a red bear for cherry or strawberry, and contribute to the product's marketability. With an increasing emphasis on natural and "free-from" labels, the choice between natural and synthetic colorings is carefully considered by manufacturers, striking a balance between consumer preferences, regulatory compliance, and the desired visual impact for their brand.

Read more about Gummy Bear Natural and Synthetic Colorings

Sour Gummy Bear: Acids as Gummy Bear Ingredients

Acids are fundamental components in gummy bear manufacturing, significantly contributing to the taste profile and shelf stability. Common edible acids used include citric acid, malic acid, and lactic acid. Citric acid, derived from citrus fruits, is one of the most prevalent owing to its sharp and tangy flavor, which complements fruit-flavored gummies exceptionally well. Malic acid, found naturally in apples, imparts a more mellow and lingering sourness, often used to accentuate berry or stone fruit flavors. Lactic acid provides a slightly different sour note, often described as less aggressive, and it can be used to add a more nuanced tartness without overwhelming the candy's sweetness.

The inclusion of these acids serves multiple purposes: they balance the sweetness of the sugars and sweeteners, enhancing the overall flavor profile and intensifying fruit notes; they act as preservatives by lowering the pH of the gummy bear, thus extending its shelf life by inhibiting bacterial growth; and they contribute to the gummy's texture by interacting with the gelatin or other gelling agents. Additionally, in sour gummy bear varieties, acid coatings are used to give an immediate puckering sensation, appealing to consumers' love for sour sweets.

The precise balance of these acids is crucial to achieve the desired taste and quality of the gummy bears, and manufacturers carefully calibrate the amount and type of acid to suit each specific flavor and texture profile. Whether aiming for a slight tang or a mouth-watering tartness, acids are indispensable ingredients that play a transformative role in enhancing the delectable experience of gummy bear candies.

Read more about Acids as Gummy Bear Ingredients

Stabilizers in Gummy Bear Ingredients

Stabilizers play a key role in gummy candy manufacturing, ensuring the candy's texture, consistency, and structural integrity during shelf life. Common stabilizers include gelatin, pectin, agar, carrageenan, and different types of gums such as gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, and guar gum.

Gelatin is a widely used stabilizer that provides the classic chewy and bouncy texture associated with traditional gummy candies. Derived from animal collagen, it helps form the gel structure that stabilizes the shape of the gummies upon setting.

Pectin, a plant-based stabilizer found naturally in fruits, is used to create gel structures in gummies, particularly for creating vegan-friendly or fruit-based treats. It provides a gelatinous texture and is especially beneficial for high-acid candies due to its stability in acidic conditions.

Agar, sourced from seaweed, is another plant-based alternative to gelatin that sets more firmly and provides a different texture. It's ideal for producing a firmer bite in the gummies and is often used to create vegan options.

Carrageenan, also derived from seaweed, is a versatile stabilizer that can create a range of textures from soft to elastic. It's frequently combined with other gelling agents to tailor the mouthfeel and chewiness of the gummy candy.

Gum arabic, harvested from Acacia trees, is an emulsifier and stabilizer that helps in maintaining the consistency of gummy candies and can improve their texture. It's particularly useful for preventing sugar crystallization.

Locust bean gum, extracted from the seeds of the carob tree, acts as a thickening and gelling agent, enhancing the chewiness and the shelf life of the gummy candies.

Xanthan gum, a fermentation-derived polysaccharide, is used in small quantities to prevent the gummies from hardening over time and to provide a stable, uniform texture.

Lastly, guar gum, from guar beans, is another thickening agent that improves texture and shelf life. It's efficient at preventing syneresis—the leaking of liquid from gels—ensuring the gummies remain juicy and appealing.

Each of these stabilizers contributes to the gummy candy's texture, visual appeal, and ability to withstand the rigors of packaging, distribution, and storage. Manufacturers carefully select and combine these stabilizers to achieve the unique characteristics of their gummy candy offerings, from the softness and elasticity to clarity and longevity.

Read more about Gummy Bear Stabilizers

Gummy Bear Ingredients FAQ

Can I make gummy bears at home?

Yes, you can make gummy bears at home using a gummy bear mold and ingredients such as fruit juice, gelatin, flavoring, and sugar. There are various homemade gummy bear recipes available online to guide you through the process.

Are there any alternatives to gelatin for making gummy bears?

For those looking for alternatives to gelatin, pectin, agar, and cornstarch can be used as substitutes. These ingredients can provide a similar consistency for gelatin-based gummy candies.

What gives gummy bears their flavors and colors?

The flavors and colors in gummy bears are derived from fruit juice, food coloring, and flavoring. Some gummy bears may also contain natural sweeteners and flavors to enhance their taste.

Are sugar-free gummy bears available in the market?

Yes, there are sugar-free gummy bears available for those who prefer a sweet treat without added sugar. These sugar-free gummy candies are often made with sugar substitutes and natural sweeteners.

Can I customize the flavors of homemade gummy bears?

Yes, when making homemade gummy bears, you can experiment with different flavor combination. Pro tip: Lemon Cherry Sour Bears!

What is the general gummy bear recipe?

The classic gummy bear recipe includes ingredients such as gelatine, granulated sugar, and the flavor and color of your choice. These are prepared in a saucepan and simmered until fully dissolved which forms the original base of gummy bears made. Then, the mixture is put into bear-shaped molds and allowed to set until they are firm.

What is needed to make a batch of diy gummy bears at home?

To make a batch of gummy bears at home, you need unflavored gelatin (or Jell-O for colored and flavored bears), a dropper or a teaspoon for transferring the gelatin mixture into bear-shaped molds, and granulated sugar. You can also modify the classic gummy recipe with citric acid for sour gummies.

How are gummy bears removed from the mold?

Once the gelatin mixture has set in the mold and bears come to room temperature, they can be easily taken out by turning the mold upside down and tapping it gently. They can also be plied out carefully to avoid damage. Silicone molds are the easiest to demold from.

Can a gummy recipe be adjusted for different tastes?

Yes, a gummy recipe can be adjusted according to personal preferences. For example, to make sour gummies, citric acid can be added. Sour gummies have a sour taste because of the citric acid in their sugar coating.### ###

Can anyone make gummy snacks at home?

Yes, making gummy snacks at home is a fun and easy activity for both kids and adults. It requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Just the gummy bear recipe, a saucepan, a heat source, a dropper or teaspoon, gummy bear molds, and patience to let the mixture sit until firm before unmolding.

Are gummy bears allergen-free?

While many gummy bears are free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and gluten, it is always important to check the label when buying, or enquire about the ingredients used when making your own batch at home. People with a gelatine allergy or intolerance should avoid consuming gummy bears as gelatine is a key ingredient in the candy.

Can I add vitamins or supplements to my DIY gummy bears?

Yes, you can add powdered vitamins or supplements to your gummy bear recipe. However, it’s important that the supplements can withstand heat, as the gelatin mixture must simmer on the stove. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding any supplements to ensure it's safe and beneficial.

If you want to make gummies commercially and supplement them with vitamins, medicine or other custom ingredients, you love the Candy Pros' EASY MELT GUMMY BASE. You can buy in bulk, and just melt them and add your custom ingredients. It is the fastest and most reliable way to may bulk gummies.