50 Things You Didn’t Know About Gummy Bears

Gummy bears are a beloved candy with a rich history and many interesting facets. Here are 50 fascinating facts about gummy bears you might not know.

1. Origin 

Gummy bears were invented in Germany by Hans Riegel Sr., founder of Haribo, in 1922.

2. Original Name

The original gummy bears were called “Dancing Bears” or “Tanzbären” in German.

3. Haribo

Haribo, the company that invented gummy bears, stands for Hans Riegel, Bonn (Bonn being the city where the company was founded).

4. Size Evolution

The first gummy bears were larger than today’s standard gummy bears.

5. Flavors

Traditional gummy bear flavors include raspberry, orange, strawberry, pineapple, and lemon.

6. Gelatin

Gummy bears are made using gelatin, a protein derived from animal collagen.

7. Vegetarian Options

There are vegetarian and vegan gummy bears made without gelatin, using pectin or agar instead.

8. Popularity

Gummy bears are one of the most popular gummy candies worldwide.

9. Annual Production

Haribo produces over 100 million gummy bears daily.

10. Color Coding

In Haribo’s gummy bears, each color corresponds to a different flavor: red for raspberry, green for strawberry, clear for pineapple, orange for orange, and yellow for lemon.

11. International Variations

Flavors and recipes of gummy bears can vary by country, catering to local tastes.

12. Gummy Vitamins

Gummy bears inspired the creation of gummy vitamins for kids and adults.

13. Sugar-Free Options

There are sugar-free gummy bears available, often made with sugar alcohols like maltitol.

14. Cultural Impact

Gummy bears have appeared in various media, including movies, TV shows, and songs.

15. Science Experiments

Gummy bears are used in science experiments, such as the “gummy bear osmosis” experiment.

16. Shape Varieties

Besides bears, gummy candies come in various shapes, including worms, rings, and fruits.

17. Gummy Bear Song

The “Gummy Bear Song” by Gummibär became a viral sensation with millions of views on YouTube.

18. Edible Art

Artists have used gummy bears to create intricate and colorful sculptures.

19. Gummy Bear Museum

There’s a gummy bear museum in Berlin, Germany, dedicated to the history and cultural impact of gummy bears.

20. Shelf Life

Gummy bears have a long shelf life due to their low moisture content.

21. Halloween Treat

Gummy bears are a popular choice for Halloween candy.

22. DIY Kits

You can buy DIY kits to make your own gummy bears at home.

23. Gummy Bear Anatomy

Gummy bears have a distinct shape with a small head, rounded body, and little legs.

24. Energy Source

Some athletes use gummy bears as a quick source of energy during workouts or competitions.

25. Flavored Vodka

Gummy bears are often used to infuse vodka with their flavors for a fun party treat.

26. Festive Gummies

Special edition gummy bears are made for holidays, such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter.

27. Giant Gummy Bears

You can buy giant gummy bears that weigh several pounds each.

28. Sour Varieties

Sour gummy bears are coated with a sour sugar mixture, adding a tangy twist to the traditional sweet flavor.

29. Gummy Bear Recipes

Gummy bears can be used in various recipes, including cookies, cakes, and ice cream toppings.

30. Art Supply

Melted gummy bears are sometimes used in art projects for their vibrant colors.

31. Gummy Bear Diet

A “gummy bear diet” fad involved eating gummy bears before meals to curb appetite.

32. Medicinal Uses

Some medicinal gummies are shaped like gummy bears to make them more appealing to children.

33. Baking Ingredient

Gummy bears can be baked into cakes and pastries, creating colorful and chewy surprises.

34. Kosher and Halal

Kosher and Halal gummy bears are available, made according to religious dietary laws.

35. Collectible Tins

Haribo releases collectible tins featuring gummy bears, often around holidays.

36. Cooking Challenge

There are cooking challenges where chefs create gourmet dishes using gummy bears.

37. Scented Products

Gummy bear-scented candles and air fresheners are popular for their sweet, fruity aroma.

38. Gummy Bear Conventions

There are conventions and events dedicated to gummy bear enthusiasts.

39. Nutritional Value

While primarily a treat, some gummy bears are fortified with vitamins and minerals.

40. Gummy Bear Slime

Gummy bears can be melted down to make a fun, edible slime for kids’ activities.

41. Iconic Shape

The bear shape was chosen for its cute and appealing design, making it a hit with children.

42. Gummy Bear Ice Pops

Gummy bears can be added to homemade ice pops for a colorful, chewy twist.

43. Gift Packs

Gummy bears are often included in candy gift packs and holiday baskets.

44. Soda Pairing

Gummy bears pair well with soda, often used as a fun garnish for drinks.

45. Gummy Bear Eaters

Some people enjoy eating gummy bears by color or flavor order, saving their favorites for last.

46. Colorful Candy Buffets

Gummy bears are a popular addition to candy buffets at parties and events.

47. Fun Shapes

Innovative molds can create gummy bears in different fun shapes and sizes.

48. Gummy Bear Trends

Gummy bear accessories, like earrings and keychains, have become trendy.

49. Health Craze

Gummy bears with added probiotics or other health benefits are emerging in the market.

50. Nostalgic Treat

For many, gummy bears are a nostalgic treat, evoking childhood memories and simple joys.

Gummy bears are more than just a sweet treat; they have a rich history, cultural significance, and endless possibilities for fun and creativity.