Mallow, marshmallow, or marshmallows – whatever you choose to call it, the sweet treat has been around for centuries. From simple recipes to adding in a variety of flavors, this sugary treat has become a mainstay of birthday parties and summer barbecues. But is there horse in marshmallows?
What are Marshmallows?
Marshmallows are a type of confectionery made from sugar, corn syrup and gelatin. The sugar and corn syrup are heated until they form a thick syrup, which is then mixed with the gelatin and whipped until it becomes light and fluffy. The mixture is then formed into shapes, either by hand or by using molds, and is then dusted with confectioners’ sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking. Marshmallows are traditionally white in color but can also be dyed different colors.
History of Marshmallows
Marshmallows have been around for centuries, with the first recipe being recorded in ancient Egypt. The original marshmallow recipe was made from the sap of the mallow plant, which is native to the marshy areas of Europe and Asia. The sap was boiled with sugar, egg whites and other flavorings to form a paste, which was then formed into shapes and dried.
Are there Horse in Marshmallows?
The short answer is no, there is no horse meat in marshmallows. The gelatin used in marshmallows is usually derived from either pigs or cows and is not derived from horses. The gelatin used in marshmallows is also purified and processed before it is used in the confectionery, making it highly unlikely that any trace of horse meat would be found in marshmallows.
What is Gelatin?
Gelatin is a protein derived from the collagen in animal bones, skin and connective tissue. It is often used in food products such as marshmallows, gummy candies and jellied desserts. Gelatin is also used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and photographic films.
Is Gelatin Kosher?
Gelatin is generally considered to be kosher, as long as it is made from kosher animals. The gelatin used in marshmallows is usually derived from pigs or cows, which are both considered to be kosher animals.
Is Gelatin Halal?
Gelatin is generally considered to be Halal, as long as it is made from Halal animals. The gelatin used in marshmallows is usually derived from pigs or cows, which are both considered to be Halal animals.
Is Gelatin Vegan?
No, gelatin is not considered to be vegan as it is derived from animals. Gelatin is made from the collagen in animal bones, skin and connective tissue, which means that no vegan product contains gelatin.
Is Gelatin Vegetarian?
No, gelatin is not considered to be vegetarian as it is derived from animals. Gelatin is made from the collagen in animal bones, skin and connective tissue, which means that no vegetarian product contains gelatin.
Alternative to Gelatin
There are several alternatives to gelatin that can be used in place of it in recipes. These include agar agar, pectin, guar gum and carrageenan. These plant-based alternatives work in a similar way to gelatin and can be used to make marshmallows, gummy candies and jellied desserts.
Conclusion
To conclude, there is no horse in marshmallows. The gelatin used in marshmallows is usually derived from pigs or cows and is purified and processed before it is used in the confectionery, making it highly unlikely that any trace of horse meat would be found in marshmallows. For those wishing to avoid animal-based products, there are several plant-based alternatives that can be used in place of gelatin.
Overall, marshmallows are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences.