No doubt the idea of purchasing organic candy has already occurred to you, just like those looking for a low-fat dietary treatment or following an organic food plan. And for the uninitiated: this type of candy is offered in a wide variety of shapes, flavors and even colors. Basically it is intended for anyone hooked on candy, whether young or older. Here is a short guide providing all information on organic candy.
What is an organic candy?
Obviously classic candies are enjoyable and relaxing, and at the same time help to fight fatigue. However, it is well known that the consumption of this type of confectionery should not be excessive, owing to the risk of indigestion and nausea which it can cause. Besides this, because they are filled with various food dyes, genetically modified ingredients and different types of preservatives, traditional candies can also be off-putting to fans of organic food. This is why organic candies are in vogue and immensely appreciated today by both younger and older people wishing to move away from traditional candies.
Organic candies are appreciated by both young and old
Often made with natural and organic ingredients, these delicious candies are usually free from preservatives, chemical additives, artificial flavors and chemical dyes. Generally more expensive than traditional candy, an organic candy contains no artificial substances and is very often appreciated for its multiple varieties of shapes, ingredients and natural components.
What kind of candies can be found in the organic candy range?
Since the appearance of the first organic candies in 2002, confectioners have continually diversified their products in order to meet the needs of little confectionery fans and others with nostalgic memories of childhood. But it is, of course, the traditional ranges that make up the most significant portion of the market for organic candies.
Organically gelled gums are a considerable success and are now produced in a number of shapes, aromas and flavors. Next after these are candies with a tangy flavor, which appeal to thrill-seekers and are experiencing a fairly constant growth in sales. On the other hand, boiled organic candies, cool organic refreshing pastilles, organic licorice and organic caramels represent less than 10% of the market share.
How do you recognize organic candies?
Like any organic and natural food, an organic candy is still confectionery but is free from the classic ingredients of a traditional candy. The latter is always made of sugar and glucose syrup, with different ingredients added that are specific to each type (flavor, aroma, dye, starch or gelatin), and its manufacture starts with the mixing of these components, which will be boiled in a gelatin solution. Certain types of candies even contain citric acid extracted from lemons, which, when consumed in excess, can bring on gastric pains and attack the stomach. As for the dyes, manufacturers generally use caramel, agar-agar or red cochineal.
In contrast to traditional candies, organic candies contain no additives, chemical stabilizers or any other artificial substance harmful to health. They can therefore be recognized by their “healthy” composition, which can also contain gelatin (food code E441 on the label) extracted from animal skin and bone. To compensate for the absence of gelatin and sugar in organic candies, some confectioners, certified in biological agriculture (more information here) generally use honey, organic sugar or organic apple pectin. In the case of gelatin, they also use agar-agar extracted from algae, thus achieving the doughy effect of a natural gelling agent.
Are organic candies better for your health?
It is true that even when manufactured according to organic standards, candy is still harmful to health if consumed excessively or too frequently. The absence of vitamins in this type of confectionery remains one of the harmful factors for the body’s balance. All the same, however, organic candies are much better for your health than classic sugared treats. They also prove much more interesting in relation to diet if they contain slow sugars or honey in place of fast sugars.