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Caffeinated gummy bears are a creepy combination of two things that most people would never associate with one another. However, they’re also an excellent example of why you shouldn’t judge a food by its package. Despite their appearance, caffeinated gummy bears are not particularly strange when you consider the history of these candies. People have been combining sugar, fruit juice, and caffeine in various forms for centuries. The only unusual element of this particular example is how much sugar is used to disguise the bitterness of the caffeine. This article explores why caffeinated gummy bears were created, what kind of benefits they offer, and whether or not you should incorporate them into your diet.
What’s in Caffeinated Gummy Bears?
Caffeinated gummy bears are made with a blend of high fructose corn syrup, natural and artificial flavours, pectin, citric acid, sodium citrate, and caffeine powder. They’re also shaped like gummy bears, come in a variety of fruit-based flavours, and have a chewy texture. The caffeine in caffeinated gummy bears is derived from coffee beans. It’s added to the gummy bears in the form of powder, which makes it easy to use at industrial scales. This is important because a single gummy bear contains approximately 12mg of caffeine. If they were made with coffee beans, they’d have to be far smaller (and therefore less adorable). Because caffeine is a naturally occurring substance, it’s not classified as an artificial flavouring. For the most part, caffeinated gummy bears are a natural food product. They do often contain added sugar, which may not be for everyone. If you want to consume caffeinated gummy bears, you may want to choose sugar-free versions. They’re also best consumed in moderation, as consuming too much sugar can lead to other health issues.
How Are Caffeinated Gummy Bears Made?
Caffeinated gummy bears are made in a very similar fashion to other gummy candies. The flavouring and the pectin are mixed together to create a sticky syrup. This syrup is then mixed with sugar and water and left to settle. From there, it’s poured into moulds and left to set. Some manufacturers use gummy bear-shaped moulds while others pour the mixture into long sheets and cut it into pieces. The gummy bears are then left to dry for several hours or even days, depending on the humidity of the surrounding air. Finally, the gummy bears are packaged and shipped off to various retailers. The entire process is very similar to that of other gummy candies. However, because caffeinated gummy bears have caffeine in them, they have to be made in a very clean and controlled environment. Otherwise, they may become contaminated by the caffeine. Contamination is especially dangerous because caffeine is a pesticide that can be poisonous to humans.
The Benefits of Caffeinated Gummy Bears
Caffeinated gummy bears are primarily marketed as a dietary supplement. They can be used to boost energy levels, improve mental focus, and provide a general mood-lifting effect. These candies can be consumed by nearly anyone, whether they have a diagnosed condition or feel like they need a pick-me-up. Caffeine has long been used as a supplement to improve focus and manage fatigue. This is because it increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, which helps to regulate mood and improve motivation. It also slightly stimulates the central nervous system, which can increase energy levels by prompting the body to increase its metabolic rate. Caffeinated gummy bears can also help to improve the health of your teeth and bones. This is because they contain a small amount of calcium, which is beneficial in small amounts. Caffeine is also slightly addictive, which means that you may need to limit your consumption if you’re trying to kick the caffeine habit.
The Drawback of Caffeinated Gummy Bears
The primary drawback associated with caffeinated gummy bears is the potential for overconsumption. For most people, consuming 1-2 gummy bears is enough to experience their effects. However, consuming too many calories from sugar in a single sitting is never a good idea. Caffeine can have a variety of negative effects if you consume too much of it. This includes increased heart rate, dehydration, and difficulty sleeping. It can even lead to anxiety and panic attacks in some people. The caffeine in gummy bears can also interact with other medications, including those for the treatment of high blood pressure. Caffeine can also cause digestive issues, including heartburn, bloating, and indigestion. It can also exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome in some people.
Should You Consume Caffeinated Gummy Bears?
Caffeinated gummy bears are not an essential food item, nor are they a particularly healthy source of caffeine. They can, however, be useful for people who need a little boost of energy but can’t or don’t want to drink coffee or energy drinks. They can also be consumed by children and pregnant women, who are usually advised against consuming caffeine. Caffeinated gummy bears can be useful in specific situations. However, they’re not a magical cure-all and they shouldn’t be consumed as a daily supplement. If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up and you don’t have access to coffee, then caffeinated gummy bears may be a good option. Just make sure that you consume them sparingly.
Final Words
Gummy bears are a beloved snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They’re a unique combination of chewy and squishy that appeals to people of all walks of life. Caffeinated gummy bears are a particularly strange and specific example of the gummy bear species. They’re best suited for people who need a daily energy boost but can’t or don’t want to consume coffee or energy drinks. Caffeinated gummy bears can be useful in specific situations. However, they’re not a magical cure-all and should be consumed sparingly. If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up and you don’t have access to coffee, then caffeinated gummy bears may be a good option.
