The Birth of Haribo and the Gummy Bear

In 1920, Hans Riegel founded a company called Haribo, an acronym derived from the first two letters of his first and last name, combined with the first two letters of Bonn, the city where he lived. Haribo set out to create unique and delightful sweets, and in 1922, Hans Riegel introduced a candy that would forever change the landscape of confectionery: the gummy bear.

Originally called “Dancing Bears” (Tanzbären), these small, bear-shaped candies were crafted using a mixture of sugar, glucose syrup, starch, flavouring, food colouring, citric acid, and gelatin. The use of gelatin was particularly innovative, giving the bears their distinctive chewy texture, which set them apart from other sweets of the time​.

The Gummy Bear’s Journey to Fame

The gummy bears quickly gained popularity throughout Germany. Their playful shape, bright colours, and delightful chewiness made them a favourite among children and adults alike. As Haribo’s reputation grew, so did the demand for their gummy bears. By the mid-20th century, these gummy lollies had become a staple in the confectionery market.

Haribo expanded its product line, introducing various shapes and flavours, and other confectionery companies began to create their versions of gummy candies. This marked the beginning of a gummy revolution that would spread across the globe.

Gummy Lollies Around the World

As gummy lollies travelled beyond Germany, they adapted to suit the tastes and preferences of different cultures. In the United States, gummy bears were embraced with enthusiasm, and soon other gummy shapes like worms, cola bottles, and fruit slices became popular. The versatility of gummy lollies allowed for endless creativity, with manufacturers experimenting with new flavours, shapes, and even adding vitamins to create gummy supplements.

Modern-Day Gummy Lollies

Today, gummy lollies are available in an incredible array of shapes, sizes, and flavours. From traditional gummy bears to innovative gummy vitamins, these chewy delights continue to captivate candy lovers around the world. Modern gummy candies often incorporate natural fruit juices and organic sweeteners, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences.

Gummy lollies have also become a popular choice for themed events and holidays, with seasonal variations available for Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and more. Their bright colours and playful shapes make them a favourite for lolly buffets, party favours, and everyday snacking​

The Cultural Impact of Gummy Lollies

Beyond their role as a tasty treat, gummy lollies have become a cultural phenomenon. They have inspired artists to create intricate sculptures and installations, and their image is often used in advertising and pop culture. Gummy vitamins have made taking daily supplements a more enjoyable experience for both children and adults, blending health with fun.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Sweetness

From their humble beginnings in a small German kitchen to becoming a global confectionery icon, gummy lollies have come a long way. Hans Riegel’s innovation and passion for creating delightful sweets have left an enduring legacy that continues to bring joy and sweetness to our lives. So, the next time you enjoy a handful of gummy lollies, remember the rich history and innovation behind these chewy treats, and savour the journey they have taken from a simple idea to a beloved global phenomenon.

Whether you’re a fan of classic gummy bears or adventurous new flavours, gummy lollies remain a testament to the magic of confectionery innovation, bringing smiles to faces around the world, one chew at a time.

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