Does Mamba Candy Have Pork in It?

Mamba candy has been a popular fruity chew for decades, but many fans were disappointed to learn that recent changes to the recipe have made it non-vegan. The addition of gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient, means that Mamba now contains pork

This article will explore the history of Mamba the use of gelatin in candy and why the recipe change has upset some consumers. We’ll also suggest some vegan-friendly alternatives for those looking to enjoy chewy fruit snacks without consuming animal products.

A Brief History of Mamba Candy

Mamba was first made in Germany in 1953 by the parent company Perfetti Van Melle. When they came out in the US in 1986, fruity chews were a big hit thanks to their juicy texture and bright fruit flavors.

For many years, the recipe for Mamba was vegan-friendly, containing no animal-derived ingredients. The chews were marketed as having an “intense fruit taste” and “smooth fruit juice.” Fans enjoyed the candy’s soft, chewy texture that allowed the flavor to last.

Mamba became a reliable and well-known candy brand over decades. The slogan “We’re Different Here” highlighted the product’s uniqueness. The standard five fruit flavors – lemon lime orange, strawberry, and raspberry – were included in each package.

The Addition of Gelatin to Mamba Candy

In December 2019, Mamba changed its recipe and alienated some fans by including gelatin. This animal-based ingredient is made by boiling the bones, skins, and tissues of pigs and cows.

Gelatin functions as a gelling agent and gives foods a characteristic chewy texture. It is commonly found in gummy candies, marshmallows, and jelly snacks. It’s cheap, easy to use, and doesn’t change the taste of food, so the food industry likes it.

For Mamba, adding gelatin creates a more intense, longer-lasting fruit flavor and a smoother mouthfeel. However, this change means the product is no longer considered vegan or vegetarian. The same gelatin-containing recipe is used in new Mamba products like Fruit Twists.

Many consumers choose to avoid gelatin and other animal derivatives for ethical, religious or cultural reasons. The shift away from plant-based ingredients has been disappointing for long-time Mamba fans.

Why Gelatin is Used in Many Candies

Gelatin derived from pigs and cattle offers unique functional properties to various confectioneries. Here’s an overview of why it’s so commonly used:

• Gelling ability – Gelatin can turn liquid solutions into gummy solids, perfect for making chewy candies. It determines texture and mouthfeel.

• Stabilizing power – Gelatin prevents ingredients from separating and allows foods to retain moisture.

• Neutral taste – Unlike some plant gums, gelatin does not influence flavor profiles.

• Low cost – Animal-based gelatin is inexpensive compared to vegan alternatives like agar-agar.

• Familiarity – Many manufacturers are accustomed to working with gelatin and reticent to change recipes.

• Consumer expectations – Shoppers expect certain candies, like gummy bears, to have a bouncy gelatin texture.

However, consumer demand for vegan products is growing. Many confectioners now offer gelatin-free candies made with fruit pectins, gums, and plant starches.

How to Check for Gelatin in Candy

Reading ingredient labels is the only sure way to determine if a candy product contains gelatin from pork or beef. Here are some tips:

• Scan ingredients for “gelatin” which indicates animal-derived source.

• Look for generic terms like “gelling agent” that could disguise gelatin.

• Seek out vegan symbols or statements indicating no animal-based ingredients.

• Contact manufacturers directly if source of ingredients like “natural flavors” is unclear.

• Research online or in forums to see if others have insight about vague ingredients.

• When uncertain, avoid the product if gelatin-free is important to you.

Note that different varieties from the same brand may not have consistent recipes. For example, while original Mamba Fruit Chews are now made with gelatin, Mamba Bubble Gum does not contain it. Check each product separately.

Vegan Alternatives to Enjoy Chewy Fruit Candy

Luckily for fans of Mamba, there are many comparable vegan gummy and chewy candies available too:

• YumEarth Organics – Made with real fruit juices and organic ingredients. Free of the top allergens.

• Surfsweets – These gummies use plant-based colors and natural flavors derived from fruits and vegetables.

• Goody Good Stuff – Chewy fruit snacks made with no gelatin or artificial ingredients.

• Annie’s Organic Fruit Snacks – Organic, vegan fruit flavors like berry, tropical and summer peach.

• Hello Panda – Iconic chocolate biscuits with a creamy hazelnut filling. Original variety is vegan.

• Trolli Sour Veggie Crawlers – A gelatin-free play on gummy candy in fun veggie shapes.

• Smashmallow – Marshmallows made from mint, rice syrup and tapioca starch but no gelatin.

Transitioning to animal-free candies and treats can take some research and label reading. But for those who avoid pork and other animal derivatives, it opens up more delicious options that align with your diet.

Making Informed Choices About Candy Ingredients

The recent recipe change for Mamba candy highlights the importance of being informed about product ingredients. Here are some tips:

• Read ingredient lists closely each time, since formulations evolve.

• Research unfamiliar ingredients or ask manufacturers for details.

• Look for vegan-friendly labeling if animal products must be avoided.

• Factor ethics and cultural preferences into candy-purchasing decisions.

• Watch for user reviews that might reveal ingredients not listed on packaging.

• Consider making homemade candies as an alternative when ingredients matter.

Staying aware of what’s in your food empowers you to make thoughtful choices. If you love the fruity flavors of Mamba but want to avoid gelatin, vote with your dollars and purchase vegan options instead. Being an educated and mindful consumer is the best way to promote change.

While the classic chewy Mamba candies once appealed to vegans, changes to the recipe now mean they contain gelatin derived from pork. This animal-based ingredient provides a smooth, gummy texture but prevents those who avoid meat from enjoying this decades-old fruit snack.

Thankfully, there are now many innovative gelatin-free candies that offer a similar mouthfeel and flavor. By reading labels carefully and seeking out vegan alternatives, you can still enjoy chewy fruit snacks without compromising dietary preferences or ethics.