Ever wonder how gummy worms, marshmallows, and fruit snacks maintain their shape ? In this blog post, we explore gelatin.
What is gelatin?
Gelatin is a colorless, flavorless substance derived from animal collagen, primarily sourced from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals like cows, pigs, or fish.
Gelatin is a protein that forms a gel when dissolved in hot water and solidifies as it cools, which makes it useful in a variety of food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products (1).
Where do we find gelatin?
Gelatin is primarily used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. Occasionally, it’s used in an artisanal capacity.
Gelatin in foods can be used as a stabilizer, thickener, and texturizer in food, such as
- Gelatin desserts (i.e., Jell-o)
- Marshmallows
- Gummy candies (i.e., gummy bears)
- Fruit snacks
Gelatin in cosmetics* can be used to thicken, emulsify, and even carry fragrance, it can be found in
- Haircare products
- Facemasks
- Moisturizers
Gelatin in pharmaceutical products include
- Capsules
- Vaccines
- Potentially, dermal face filler
Gelatin in the arts:
- Photography
- “Animal” glue (e.g., antique furniture restoration, bookbinding, etc.)
*Many cosmetic products have been reformulated in recent years using gelatin alternatives. Make sure to check the label if you’re avoiding gelatin ingredients.
Is gelatin made from animals?
Gelatin is made from animals, often from bovine (cow) and porcine (pig) sources. There’s been an effort to develop gelatin from fish sources. However, it’s currently not as effective as gelatin made from mammalian sources (1).
Is gelatin healthy?
While some gelatins are rich in amino acids that can help support bodily processes, consuming gelatin foods high in sugar (e.g., gummy candies, etc.) does not have widespread beneficial health impacts (1).
Is gelatin safe?
Gelatin is a GRAS ingredient and has been used for more than 2000 years.
However, contamination with bacteria and viruses is possible, but testing and quality control measures are in place to prevent the spread of diseases (1,2).
Allergic reactions to gelatin are rare, but they can occur.
The good news.
Gelatin is a versatile, natural ingredient derived from animal collagen that benefits both food and health. Gelatin offers a safe, widely used alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers, making it popular across food, cosmetics, and medical products.
If you have any questions about ingredients or ideas for a blog post, please send us an email or submit your idea to us at go.msu.edu/cris-idea.