Marshmallows are a beloved treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. They are a fluffy and sweet confection often used in desserts, as a topping for hot chocolate, mixed in with your favorite ice cream, or even as a snack as mini marshmallows.
But one question on many people’s minds is whether or not marshmallows contain pork. In this blog post, we will explore the history of marshmallows, what they are made of, and whether or not they contain pork.
What are Marshmallows?
Marshmallows have been around for centuries and were originally made from the root of the marshmallow plant.
The marshmallow plant is a perennial herb that grows in damp areas and has a thick, mucilaginous root. The root was used to make a sweet, fluffy confection enjoyed by the ancient Egyptians.
The marshmallows were made by extracting the sap from the root and mixing it with sugar and egg whites.
However, making marshmallows from the marshmallow plant was time-consuming and labor-intensive. In the 19th century, a new method was developed that used gelatin instead of the marshmallow plant to make the confection.
Gelatin is a protein derived from collagen found in animal bones, skin, and tendons. This new method made it much easier to produce marshmallows on a large scale, and they became a popular treat.
Do Marshmallows Have Pork in them?
One of the marshmallows’ main ingredients is gelatin, a protein derived from collagen.
Collagen is found in animal bones, skin, and tendons, which means that marshmallows can contain traces of pork.
However, most marshmallows today are made with gelatin derived from pork or beef gelatin, mostly the popular brands such as Kraft jet-Puffed Marshmallows.
If you are a strict vegetarian or Muslim, you may want to avoid marshmallows.
However, many marshmallow manufacturers today offer a halal or kosher version of marshmallows made with vegetarian gelatin.
These vegetarian marshmallows are made with plant-based gelatin, such as agar, carrageenan, or pectin. They are also certified halal or kosher, which means they meet the dietary requirements of those who follow those diets.
What are Marshmallows Made of?
Marshmallows are made with a few basic ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin. The sugar and corn syrup are combined with water and heated until the mixture reaches a certain temperature.
Then, the mixture is cooled, and the gelatin is added. The mixture is then whipped until it becomes fluffy and light. Finally, the marshmallows are cut into squares and dusted with cornstarch to prevent them from sticking together.
Some marshmallows are flavored with vanilla or other flavors, and some are colored to make them more visually appealing.
Some marshmallows contain other ingredients, such as nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit.
How are Marshmallows Made?
Marshmallows combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a large pot and heat it until the mixture reaches a certain temperature.
The mixture is then cooled, and the gelatin is added. The mixture is then whipped until it becomes fluffy and light. The marshmallows are then cut into squares and dusted with cornstarch to prevent them from sticking together.
The marshmallows are then placed in a pan and left to dry for several hours. Once dry, the marshmallows are cut into squares and packaged for sale.
Final Thought
Marshmallows contain pork, or more specifically, gelatin derived from collagen, which can be sourced from various animal products, including pigs.
This means that marshmallows are unsuitable for vegetarians or those who follow certain dietary laws (religious reasons), such as kosher and halal.
Some vegans and those who follow these dietary restrictions may avoid regular marshmallows due to the presence of pork gelatin.
However, vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as agar-agar and carrageenan are available in the market.
These vegan marshmallows are made with plant-based gelatin, such as agar, carrageenan, or pectin, and are suitable for those who follow those diets.
Overall, marshmallow ingredients, such as sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin, are delicious treats that many can enjoy.