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Behind the chewy, delicious and colorful gummy candies, there is a “magic” ingredient – gelatin. Not only does it determine the elasticity and flavor of the candy, but also directly affects the molding, storage and chewing feeling of the product. As a professional soft candy manufacturer, LeChao places high emphasis on the choice and use of gelatin in product R&D and strives to provide customers with candy solutions of stable quality and superior flavor.
What Is Gelatin?
Gelatin is a natural high-molecular protein, mainly extracted by hydrolysis of animal collagen such as pig skin and cow bones. It is colorless, odorless, easily soluble in hot water, and can form a soft and elastic colloid after cooling. It is a common and important structural component in gummy candies.
Why Is Gelatin Used In Soft Candy?
In products such as gummy candy, marshmallows, and jelly beans, the role of gelatin is irreplaceable:
| Function | Description |
| Provides chewy texture | Gelatin gives gummies their signature elasticity — soft yet not sticky or hard. |
| Supports shaping and structure | Forms a 3D network when cooled, helping the candy hold its shape. |
| Enhances clarity and gloss | Transparent gelatin improves the candy’s visual appeal. |
| Adjustable firmness and setting speed | Varies the firmness and bite level by adjusting the concentration. |
What Are The Types of Gelatin? How Does LeChao Choose?
Common gelatin can be roughly divided into the following categories according to its source and application:
| Type | Source | Suitable For | Features |
| Pork Gelatin | Pork collagen | Gummies, jelly beans | Soft texture, great solubility and elasticity |
| Bovine Gelatin | Bovine collagen | Marshmallows, gel candies | Strong gelling strength, good for mass production |
| Fish/Plant-Based | Fish skin or plant-derived | Vegan or halal-friendly gummies | Alternative to animal gelatin, higher cost, less elasticity |
LeChao will make precise matches based on product characteristics, taste requirements, and target markets (such as whether it is halal or vegetarian). For example:
- Conventional soft candies use high-quality pig skin gelatin, which is chewy and smooth.
- Marshmallow products require gelatin with a light texture to form a soft foam structure.
- For orders exported to the Middle East or specific countries, halal-certified beef gelatin is supported.
- For vegan or vegetarian market needs, we can use plant-based alternatives (such as pectin, carrageenan, etc.).
In Addition to Gelatin, What Other Alternative Colloids Are There?
Although gelatin is the mainstream colloid in the production of soft candies, LeChao can also use other gel systems for vegetarian, halal or specific taste requirements:
- Pectin: suitable for fruit juice gummies or sour candies, with a slightly crisp bite;
- Carrageenan: extracted from seaweed, suitable for cold candies or plant sugars;
- Agar: plant-derived, high transparency, but with a crisp taste, often used in jelly products.
Examples of Gelatin Applications in LeChao Soft Candy Products
| Product Series | Gelatin Type | Key Features |
| Classic Gummy Candy (e.g. Bears/Fruits) | Pork Gelatin | Balanced chewiness and elasticity |
| Marshmallow Series | Bovine Gelatin | Light and fluffy texture, melts in the mouth |
| Juice-Filled or Dual-Texture Gummies | Blended (Gelatin + Pectin) | Soft outer, juicy center, strong fruit flavor |
| Vegan Gummy Custom Line | Pectin or Plant-Based | No animal ingredients, suitable for vegan/halal |
Conclusion: LeChao, Crafting Chewy Delights with the Magic of Gelatin
Although gelatin is small, it is the soul of the soft candy structure. With its rich experience in soft candy manufacturing and flexible raw material control capabilities, LeChao can accurately formulate, quickly proof, and stably mass-produce according to customer needs. We not only care about the taste and appearance of candy, but also pay more attention to its compliance and diversified adaptability in the global market.
Welcome to contact LeChao to obtain soft candy product catalogs, customized formula suggestions, or request gelatin and ingredient instructions. We will provide you with the most suitable candy solution!
