Do Black Forest Gummies Contain Pork?

Black Forest gummies have been a beloved candy treat for generations. With their soft, chewy texture and burst of fruity flavor in every bite, it’s easy to see why they are such a popular choice. However, many candy lovers want to know – do Black Forest gummies contain pork products?

The short answer is yes Black Forest’s classic gummy candies are made with pork gelatin This ingredient gives the gummies their signature texture, but also means the products are not vegetarian, vegan, or kosher.

Why Black Forest Uses Pork Gelatin

On their website, Black Forest states “We use pork gelatin to achieve the perfect yummy, gummy chew.” Gelatin is a protein substance derived from the skins, bones, and connective tissues of animals. It has unique gelling properties that give gummy candies their characteristic soft, elastic texture.

Pork gelatin is the most common type used in gummy candy production. It offers the right balance of gelling strength melting point and cost effectiveness. Beef gelatin can also be used, but tends to be more expensive. Pork provides an affordable gelatin that allows Black Forest to mass produce their gummies with the exact mouthfeel they want.

The gelatin gives Black Forest gummies

• Soft, chewy, bouncy texture
• Ability to melt in the mouth
• Shiny, vibrant appearance
• Excellent shelf life and stability

Without gelatin, it would be difficult for the gummies to achieve the texture Black Forest intends. Gelatin allows them to create a product that consumers expect – soft, juicy gummies that feel pleasant to chew.

Black Forest’s Stance on Pork Gelatin

While other brands have introduced gelatin-free gummy options, Black Forest remains committed to using pork gelatin. On their FAQ page they state:

“At this time, all of our products do contain pork gelatin. We’ve done extensive testing on alternative ingredients, but nothing compares to the quality that pork gelatin provides in our gummy products.”

The implication is that non-animal alternatives like pectin, agar, and gum arabic compromise the flavor, shelf life, and/or texture. Black Forest feels pork gelatin is currently the best option for delivering the premium gummies their customers expect.

The brand has responded to some consumer requests for pork-free gummies saying:

“We don’t currently have plans to make a vegetarian version. Our products go through rigorous testing to ensure they meet our high-quality standards in terms of flavor, texture and appearance.”

So while Black Forest recognizes the demand, they appear unwilling to reformulate their classic recipes. Pork gelatin remains their ingredient of choice.

Implications for Dietary Restrictions

The use of pork gelatin means Black Forest gummies are off-limits for several groups including:

• Vegetarians/Vegans – who avoid animal products for ethical reasons
• Religious groups – including Muslims & Jews who avoid pork for religious reasons
• Some with allergies – gelatin can cause reactions for those allergic to pork
• Some Asian groups – who avoid pork for cultural reasons

While the gummies are still gluten-free, fat free, and “naturally flavored”, the pork content excludes many consumers. Being upfront about their ingredients allows shoppers to make informed decisions.

Which Black Forest Products Contain Pork?

Most classic Black Forest gummies contain pork gelatin, including:

• Black Forest Gummy Bears
• Black Forest Sour Gummy Worms
• Black Forest Juicy Fruit Snacks
• Black Forest Organic Gummy Bears & Worms
• Black Forest Sour Belts

However, some fruit-based products are pork-free:

• Black Forest Fruit Snacks – contain pectin, not gelatin
• Black Forest Organic Real Fruit Snacks – also pectin-based

So fruit snacks are a good alternative, though the gummy candies currently all contain pork. Check labels carefully to ensure you’re choosing a pork-free option.

Asking Black Forest for Pork-Free Options

Many consumers have reached out requesting Black Forest offer a pork-free gummy alternative. With increased demand from vegetarians, religious groups, and pork allergy sufferers, they may eventually expand their line.

Ways to request pork-free gummies include:

• Calling their Consumer Relations line at 1-800-323-9380

• Emailing a request through their Contact Us form

• Messaging them on Facebook @blackforestcandy

• Tweeting @BlackForestCandy

• Writing a letter to: Ferrara Candy Company, 1 Tower Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181

If enough shoppers make their interest known directly, Black Forest may consider adding a pectin-based gummy to accommodate more diets. Until then, fruit snacks remain the pork-free choice.

Other Pork-Free Gummy Options

While Black Forest sticks with pork gelatin for now, there are other gummy brands offering pork-free options:

• Surf Sweets Organic Fruity Bears – pectin-based, non-GMO, organic

• Project 7 Low Sugar Gummy Bears – pectin gummies, less sugar

• Tommy’s Bears – pectin-based, Halal-certified

• Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks – not bears but similar, organic

• Sprouts Vegan Gummy Bears – available at Sprouts markets

• Trader Joe’s Scandinavian Swimmers – shaped like fish, not bears

• Simply Gummi Organic Bears – pectin-based, organic

So vegans and those avoiding pork do have gummy bear options from brands committed to being inclusive. With public interest continuing to grow, even more brands like Black Forest may expand their lines.

Waiting for Progress

For those who grew up loving Black Forest’s pork-based gummies, the disappointing truth that they contain an off-limits ingredient can be hard to swallow. But increased consumer awareness and demand for inclusivity may eventually turn the tide.

While Black Forest clings to pork gelatin for now, public pressure has swayed other major brands to introduce alternative recipes. Perhaps someday Black Forest will answer calls for pectin bears that anyone can enjoy. Until then, seek out one of the many smaller brands offering delicious pork-free gummy bears and snacks.