Gummies

Gelatin-Based:

• Traditional Formulation: Utilizes gelatin as the primary gelling agent, providing the characteristic chewy texture. Ideal for standard fruit and sour gummies. Gelatin is derived from collagen found in animal bones and connective tissue, offering a protein source and a unique mouthfeel.
• Soft Gelatin: Offers a softer bite, often used in larger gummies or those meant to dissolve quickly in the mouth. These are particularly popular in medicinal and supplement gummies where quick release is desired.

Pectin-Based:

• Vegan and Vegetarian Gummies: Pectin, derived from fruits like apples and citrus, serves as a gelling agent, making these gummies suitable for those avoiding animal products. They often have a slightly firmer texture compared to gelatin-based gummies and are stable in a wider range of temperatures.
• Functional Pectin Gummies: These can include added nutrients or medicinal ingredients, leveraging pectin’s ability to form a stable gel with a pleasant mouthfeel.

Agar-Agar-Based:

• Specialty Gummies: Agar-agar, derived from seaweed, is another plant-based gelling agent. It creates a firmer, more jelly-like texture and is used in various specialty gummy formulations. Agar-agar gummies are often used in high-end or niche markets due to their unique texture and vegetarian-friendly properties.

Functional Additives:

• Nutrient Enrichment: Gummies can be fortified with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, providing added health benefits. This makes them an attractive option for supplement manufacturers looking to offer more palatable alternatives to traditional tablets and capsules.
• Flavor Enhancers: Natural and artificial flavors are used to create a wide array of taste profiles, from classic fruit flavors to exotic and mixed fruit blends. Flavor enhancers can include natural fruit concentrates, essential oils, and flavor extracts.
• Colorants: Natural colorants from fruits and vegetables, such as beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, and carrot juice, as well as artificial dyes, are used to give gummies their vibrant appearance. Natural colorants are increasingly popular due to consumer demand for cleaner labels.

Coatings:

• Sour Sugar: A mix of sugar and citric acid, providing a sour coating for a tangy flavor burst. This coating not only enhances the taste but also prevents gummies from sticking together.
• Glossing Agents: Applied to give gummies a shiny, appealing finish and prevent them from sticking together. Common glossing agents include carnauba wax and beeswax.

Additional Details:

• Manufacturing Process: The production of gummies involves creating a syrup base, often comprising glucose, sugar, and a gelling agent (gelatin, pectin, or agar-agar). This mixture is heated and blended with flavorings, colorings, and functional additives before being poured into molds. Once cooled, the gummies are coated and packaged.
• Shelf Stability: Gummies have a relatively long shelf life due to their low water activity, which inhibits microbial growth. Proper packaging, such as airtight containers or foil pouches, can extend their shelf life even further.
• Market Trends: There is a growing trend towards “clean label” gummies, which use natural ingredients and avoid artificial additives. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that are organic, non-GMO, and free from synthetic colors and flavors.
• Regulatory Considerations: For functional and dietary gummies, especially those containing vitamins, minerals, or CBD, compliance with regulatory standards is crucial. This includes proper labeling, adherence to dosage guidelines, and ensuring product safety and efficacy through rigorous testing.