15 Facts About National Gummi Bear Day (April 27th)

What is National Gummi Bear Day?

National Gummi Bear Day, celebrated on April 27th, is a day dedicated to honoring one of the most beloved candies around the globe: gummi bears. These small, fruit-flavored, bear-shaped treats have captured the hearts of people of all ages, making this day a sweet occasion to indulge in their chewy goodness.

The Origin of Gummi Bears

1. Gummi bears were first created in Germany in the early 1920s by a confectioner named Hans Riegel, Sr., who founded the company Haribo. This innovation marked the beginning of a new era in candy.

2. The original name for gummi bears in Germany was "Gummibärchen," which translates to "little rubber bears."

How Gummi Bears Are Made

3. Making gummi bears involves a process known as starch molding. Confectioners pour a mixture of sugar, glucose syrup, flavorings, and gelatin into starch molds, which give the candies their iconic shape.

4. After setting in the molds, gummi bears are then coated with a thin layer of beeswax or carnauba wax to give them a shiny appearance and prevent sticking.

Varieties and Flavors

5. Over the years, gummi bears have evolved to include a wide range of flavors beyond the original fruit varieties. Today, you can find them in flavors like cola, champagne, and even spicy options.

6. Vegan and vegetarian versions of gummi bears are also available, using pectin or starch instead of gelatin.

Celebrating National Gummi Bear Day

7. Celebrating National Gummi Bear Day can be as simple as enjoying your favorite gummi bears. Many people also get creative by incorporating them into recipes, crafts, and even educational activities for kids.

8. Some companies and candy stores offer special promotions, discounts, or new flavor releases in honor of the day, making it a perfect time for enthusiasts to stock up on these chewy treats.

Fun Facts About Gummi Bears

9. Haribo, the original creator of gummi bears, produces over 100 million gummi bears daily.

10. The largest gummi bear ever made weighed 1,400 pounds and was displayed in a museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

11. Gummi bears aren't just popular as a snack; they've also inspired various forms of media, including a television series in the 1980s and numerous mobile games.

12. In some countries, gummi bears have been used in school science experiments to demonstrate osmosis. When soaked in water, they can expand to several times their original size.

13. A common myth suggests that eating red gummi bears last will bring good luck. While there's no scientific basis for this, it's a fun tradition for many gummi bear fans.

14. The world record for the most gummi bears eaten in one minute is 214, set by Ashrita Furman in 2013.

15. Gummi bears have even gone to space! In 2014, a group of high school students from California sent a package of gummi bears to the edge of space as part of a science experiment, proving that these little candies have truly captured imaginations worldwide.

A Sweet Send-Off

National Gummi Bear Day isn't just another day on the calendar; it's a celebration of joy, color, and sweetness that these little treats bring into our lives. From their humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, gummi bears have captured hearts and taste buds around the world. Whether you're a fan of the classic fruit flavors or adventurous enough to try the sour and exotic varieties, there's no denying the universal appeal of these chewy delights. So, mark your calendars for April 27th, grab a bag of your favorite gummi bears, and join in on the fun. Sharing stories, making crafts, or simply enjoying these sugary treats can turn this day into a memorable occasion. Let's keep the spirit of National Gummi Bear Day alive by spreading sweetness and smiles, one gummi bear at a time.