Have you ever wondered what goes into your favorite gummy candies?
If you’re a fan of Trolli, you might be curious about whether or not their products contain pork gelatin. Gelatin is a common ingredient in gummy candies, but it can be tricky to know where it comes from.
Some gelatin is derived from pork, while other types come from beef. As a consumer, it’s important to know what you’re putting into your body and whether or not it aligns with your dietary restrictions or beliefs.
In this article, we’ll explore the use of gelatin in Trolli candies and whether or not they use pork gelatin. So, let’s dive in and find out!
Does Trolli Use Pork Gelatin?
After conducting research and reaching out to the Ferrara Candy Company, the owner of Trolli, we can confirm that some Trolli products do contain pork gelatin. This means that they are not halal certified and may not be suitable for those who follow a halal diet.
However, it’s important to note that not all Trolli products contain pork gelatin. The type of gelatin used in their candies varies from product to product, with some using beef gelatin instead.
For example, their halal-certified candy ranges do not contain pork gelatin and use other types of gelatin that still provide the signature delicious flavor of Trolli candies.
It’s also worth mentioning that gummy candies, in general, are not vegan-friendly due to the use of animal-derived gelatin. Gelatin is derived from animal tissue like bones, skin, and cartilage, which means it’s not suitable for those following a vegan diet.
What Is Gelatin And Why Is It Used In Gummy Candies?
Gelatin is a protein that is extracted from animal skin and bones, and it is commonly used in gummy candies to give them their bouncy texture. It is created by boiling animal parts like bones, horns, and skin for an extended period of time until the collagen breaks down. Gelatin is odorless and tasteless, which makes it a perfect ingredient to add to foods like gummy candy and Jell-O to provide a semi-solid jiggle.
While gelatin is most commonly derived from pork, it can also be obtained from other animal sources like beef or fish. This is good news for those who follow a kosher or halal diet, as the Jewish and Islamic faiths forbid the consumption of pork. The market has adapted to this growing demand for gelling agents made from alternatives to pork, and halal or kosher alternatives are now available for popular gummy candies or treats such as marshmallows.
It’s important to note that not all gummy candies contain gelatin, and some brands have started using vegan-friendly alternatives like agar-agar or carrageenan. However, for traditional gummy candy lovers, gelatin remains a key ingredient that provides the unique texture and chewiness that they crave.
Different Types Of Gelatin And Their Sources
Gelatin can be classified into two types based on the type of pretreatment it undergoes during the manufacturing process. Type A gelatin is obtained from acid-treated collagen, while type B gelatin is derived from an alkali-treated precursor.
Gelatin can be sourced from different animals such as bovine, porcine, poultry, and marine sources. Bovine and porcine gelatin are the most common types found in the market. The raw materials used to produce gelatin are by-products of the meat industry, making gelatin production sustainable and part of the circular economy.
Food-grade gelatin, also known as gelling gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, also known as non-gelling gelatin, are two types of gelatin available. These products are processed differently to produce powders with varying sizes of molecules and structures that target different areas of the body.
Gelatin comes in two forms: sheets or powder. Professional chefs prefer sheets because they dissolve slowly and result in a clearer final product with a more pure taste. Sheet gelatin is available in four strengths: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum, with each level distinguished by its bloom strength. The higher the bloom strength, the higher the melting point of the gel and the shorter the gelling set time.
Powdered gelatin is more commonly used in home cooking and baking. It typically comes in packets of 225 bloom strength, with four sheets of gelatin equivalent to one packet. The type of sheet gelatin used in a recipe does not matter as they contain the same amount of gelling power.
The Importance Of Knowing The Source Of Gelatin In Food
Knowing the source of gelatin in food is important for individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences. As mentioned earlier, gelatin is derived from animal tissue, which means it’s not suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Additionally, some individuals may follow a halal or kosher diet and require certification that the gelatin used in their food is derived from a permissible source.
It’s also important to note that not all gelatin is created equal. The type of animal tissue used and the method of preparation can affect the nutritional value and potential health benefits of gelatin. For example, gelatin derived from grass-fed animals may have higher levels of beneficial amino acids compared to gelatin derived from conventionally raised animals.
Therefore, it’s important for consumers to research and choose products that align with their dietary needs and values. This can involve reading ingredient labels, contacting manufacturers for information on the source of their gelatin, or seeking out certified halal or kosher products.
By being informed about the source of gelatin in food, individuals can make more conscious and informed choices about what they consume.
Does Trolli Use Pork Gelatin In Their Candies?
After conducting thorough research and reaching out to the Ferrara Candy Company, we can confirm that some Trolli products do contain pork gelatin. This information was obtained by directly asking the company about the source of their gelatin. The response stated that gelatin used in Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers is derived from pork, and if a product contains gelatin, it means it’s pork gelatin.
It’s important to note that not all Trolli products contain pork gelatin. The type of gelatin used in their candies varies from product to product, with some using beef gelatin instead. For instance, the company’s halal-certified candy ranges do not contain pork gelatin and use other types of gelatin that still provide the signature delicious flavor of Trolli candies.
However, it’s worth mentioning that gummy candies, in general, are not suitable for those following a halal or vegan diet due to the use of animal-derived gelatin. Gelatin is derived from animal tissue like bones, skin, and cartilage, which means it’s not suitable for those following a halal or vegan diet.
Alternative Gelatin-Free Gummy Candy Options For Vegetarians And Vegans.
For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, finding gelatin-free gummy candy options can be a challenge. However, there are some great alternatives available that are just as delicious as traditional gummy candies.
One popular option is Sour Patch Kids. These sour gummy worms are made without gelatin or any other animal products, making them a great vegan alternative to Trolli gummy worms. They have a sour taste that quickly turns sweet and come in various shapes that are popular among both kids and adults.
Another great option is Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks. These organic and healthy candies are completely vegan and gluten-free. They come in a variety of fruity flavors and are made with real fruit juice, providing a daily dose of vitamin C.
Project 7 Gummy Bears are another great alternative to Trolli gummy candies. They are made with pectin instead of gelatin and contain less sugar than traditional candies. They are also naturally sweetened with stevia, which is derived from the leaves of the stevia plant.
Yumearth Organic Gummy Fruits are another delicious option for those looking for gelatin-free gummy candies. They are made with pectin instead of gelatin and come in various flavors like Banana Blast, Strawberry Smash, Very Very Cherry, and Perfectly Peach. They are allergy-friendly, gluten-free, non-GMO, and have no artificial flavors or dyes.
Lastly, Jelly Belly Gummies are made with tapioca syrup instead of gelatin and come in various natural flavors like lemon, berry blue, berry cherry, green apple, and orange.