The Hidden World of Pork Gelatin What Candy Has Pig Parts In It?
With tantalizing chewy textures and sweet sugary flavors, candy offers an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike But for those avoiding pork for religious, ethical, or health reasons, many classic candies hide an unpleasant secret – pork gelatin This nearly invisible animal ingredient gives gummies their signature chew and marshmallows their fluff.
If the thought of pig parts in your candy makes you squeamish, read on to learn which contenders you must avoid and the tasty alternatives that let you indulge guilt-free.
The Role of Pork Gelatin in Candy
First, let’s understand why candy contains pork in the first place. Gelatin, derived by boiling animal skin and bones, acts as a stabilizer and gelling agent. It provides the chewy, stretchy texture in gummy candies and the squishy fluffiness of marshmallows.
Candy makers often choose pig gelatin because pigs contain a particularly high collagen content in their skin and bones. Cow gelatin can be used too, but pork yields more per animal, keeping costs low. Manufacturers also favor pork gelatin because it has very little flavor, allowing fruity and other candy flavors to pop.
While those fatty pork parts provide desirable textures, their presence can make certain candies off-limits for those avoiding pig products. Vegetarians, vegans, as well as Jewish and Islamic faiths prohibit pork consumption, making checking labels a must.
offenders contain gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients like glycerides and pepsin. Let’s explore which popular picks to enjoy in moderation or avoid completely.
Classic Candies Containing Pork
Gummy Bears
The quintessential jelly candy relies on pork gelatin to achieve its signature chewy bear shapes. Instead, try Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks or Surf Sweets Organic Fruity Bears.
Marshmallows
In both small bits and puffy camping sizes, marshmallows owe their pillowy texture to pork gelatin. Look for vegan alternatives like Dandies Vegan Marshmallows.
Candy Corn
The classic Halloween triangle candies contain pork gelatin for chewiness. Enjoy Plant Pantry Organic Candy Corn from Target for your fall festivities instead.
Starburst Gummies
These juicy, fruit-flavored gummy snacks get their chew from pork gelatin. Skip them and try Panda brand licorice candy for a similar texture without the pig parts.
Jujyfruits
Another chewy fruit snack, these candies hide pork gelatin in their ingredient list. Opt for similar chewy fruit candies like Swedish Fish instead.
Jellied Sours
With a firm exterior and chewy middle, Jellied Sours contain pork gelatin for texture. Choose softer Sour Patch Kids as a vegan-friendly alternative.
Nerds
The tiny crunchy candies in their iconic boxes contain hidden pork gelatin for chew. Skip them and crunch on Smarties or SweeTarts instead.
Licorice
Both red twists and black licorice ropes get their elastic chew from pork gelatin. Try TWIZZLERS Strawberry Twists for a
gelatin-free licorice fix.
Altoids Mints
Although not gummy, these classic mints contain pork gelatin on the ingredients list. Pick menthol Ice Chips Xylitol Candy Canes instead for fresh breath.
Chewy Candy Bars
Chewy chocolate candies like Snickers, Milky Way, 3 Musketeers all contain pork gelatin. Opt for vegan chocolate bars without sneaky animal additives.
Pork-Free Candies You Can Enjoy Guilt-Free
Now for the good news! Many classic candies shine through with vegan formulations:
Skittles
Fruit-flavored chewy candy
Swedish Fish
Cherry-flavored chewy fish shaped candy
Jolly Ranchers
Hard fruit-flavored candy
Laffy Taffy
Chewy taffy available in fun flavors
Airheads
Chewy, stretchy fruit candy
Sour Patch Kids
Tart, chewy candy in fun shapes
Smarties
Sweet, tart candy disks
Jolly Rancher Gummies
Chewy, bold fruit-flavored gummies
SweeTarts & SweeTarts Ropes
Zesty, chewy candy
Tootsie Rolls
Chocolatey chewy candies
Dum Dums
Fruit lollipops on sticks
Blow Pops
Fruit candy pops with bubblegum
With careful label reading and selecting from this list of pork-free picks, you can satisfy candy cravings without the ick factor of pork gelatin. Indulge in fruity Skittles, chewy Swedish Fish, or tart Jolly Ranchers to enjoy classic candy flavors minus the pig parts. Snack happy and treat yourself guilt-free!
What candy has pork in it?
FAQ
Which Skittles have pork?
Does Starburst contain pork?
Is pork in Jolly Ranchers?
Do Twizzlers have pork?
What foods contain pork?
Surprising foods that contain pork include some bread, tortillas, donuts, and pudding with L-cysteine, which softens the dough. Gelatin from pork is also common in sugared cereals, candies, ice cream, and chewing gum, and is often used as a thickener or hardener. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.
What ingredients are in candy?
Candies always have sugar in their composition. They may also have other sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup and some colorings.
Are pork gelatin candies vegan?
Understanding the presence of pork gelatin in candies is essential for vegans and those with pork allergies. By being aware of the candies that commonly contain this animal-derived ingredient, you can make informed choices that align with your dietary needs.
Does ice cream contain pork?
The beloved ice cream is among the best, most delicious, and most famous sweet treats. Ice cream can be bought on the street at the ice cream van, next to the beach at the ice cream parlor, or served in a five-star restaurant with a volcano cake or other delicatessen. Either way, any of these ice creams, no matter the price, could contain pork.