gummy worms
{{Short description|Gummy candy shaped like worms}}
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{{Infobox food|name=Gummy worms|image=Three Nice! Gummy Worms (19543065510).jpg|caption=Gummy worms|alternate_name=Gummi worms, sour worms|country=United States
Germany|region=|course=|type=Confectionery|served=|main_ingredient=Gelatin|variations=Gummy worms, sour worms, gummi worms|calories=|no_recipes=false}}
Gummy worms (also called Gummi WormsIt was founded under the name "Gummi worms" by Trolli in 1981 but numerous other brands such as Haribo and Sour Patch Kids call it "Gummy worms") are a type of worm-shaped gummy candy. They are made from a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and flavorings.{{Cite web |title=Gummy Worms Are Newer Than You Think |url=https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/gummy-worms-newer-think-213000428.html |access-date=2023-01-28 |website=www.yahoo.com |language=en-US |archive-date=2022-11-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113104935/https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/gummy-worms-newer-think-213000428.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Leah J. |date=2022-10-17 |title=Trolli has created a Halo 'Feedler' that shoots gummy worms |url=https://www.gameshub.com/news/news/halo-world-championshi-feedler-gun-gummy-worms-trolli-31641/ |access-date=2023-01-28 |website=GamesHub |language=en-AU |archive-date=2023-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322122303/https://www.gameshub.com/news/news/halo-world-championshi-feedler-gun-gummy-worms-trolli-31641/ |url-status=live }}
History
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The invention of gummy worms can be attributed to the German confectionery manufacturer Trolli in 1981.{{Cite web |date=2022-07-15 |title=Today is: Gummi Worm Day |url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/today-gummi-worm-day-092406821.html |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=Yahoo Finance |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907150938/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/today-gummi-worm-day-092406821.html |url-status=live }}
The unique shape and texture of gummy worms contributed to their versatility as a confection. Usage ranges from a topping for ice cream sundaes to serving as a key ingredient in various baking recipes. Gummy worms emerged as a popular choice among Halloween trick-or-treaters and are also used as party favors.
Ingredients
The most common types of gummy worms typically contain gelatin, sugar, water, corn syrup or glucose syrup, flavorings (such as fruit extracts or artificial flavors), coloring agents, and, in some cases, citric acid for a sour taste.{{Cite web |date=2013-07-24 |title=Investigation: What's In Gummy Worms? |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/gummy-worms_n_3639519 |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=HuffPost |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528233343/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/gummy-worms_n_3639519 |url-status=live }} Additional ingredients may include vegetable oils or waxes for coating and for preventing sticking.
Variations
Gummy worms are sold in various flavors, sizes, and textures. Flavors include traditional fruit flavors like cherry, strawberry, and orange, as well as more adventurous options like sour apple, watermelon, and tropical blends.{{Cite web |date=2022-11-06 |title=Gummy Worms' Gross Out '80s Introduction To The US |url=https://www.tastingtable.com/1083096/gummy-worms-gross-out-80s-introduction-to-the-us/ |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=Tasting Table |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528070431/https://www.tastingtable.com/1083096/gummy-worms-gross-out-80s-introduction-to-the-us/ |url-status=live }}
File:Sweet and Sour (434687439).jpg
Some gummy worms have a sugar coating, and others a sour dusting. In terms of size, gummy worms can range from small, bite-sized pieces to larger, jumbo versions. Additionally, there are variations in texture, with some gummy worms having a softer, chewier consistency while others provide a firmer bite.