What To Know
- Confectioner’s glaze is a natural food additive that provides a glossy finish and a protective layer to candy corn.
- It is not a bug secretion in the conventional sense, but rather a processed form of a natural substance.
- While confectioner’s glaze is derived from the secretions of lac beetles, these secretions are processed and refined to create a safe and edible food additive.
Candy corn, a beloved Halloween treat, has sparked a long-standing rumor that its waxy outer layer is coated with bug secretions. This has raised concerns among consumers, prompting the need to investigate the truth behind this claim.
The Waxy Outer Layer: A Protective Barrier
Candy corn’s waxy outer layer serves as a protective barrier to prevent the candy from sticking together and to maintain its shape. This layer is primarily composed of confectioner’s glaze, a food-grade shellac derived from the resinous secretions of the lac beetle.
Lac Beetles and Confectioner’s Glaze
Lac beetles, native to Southeast Asia, secrete a natural resinous substance called lac. This substance is harvested and processed to create confectioner’s glaze, a safe and edible coating used in various food products, including candy corn.
The Role of Confectioner’s Glaze
Confectioner’s glaze is a natural food additive that provides a glossy finish and a protective layer to candy corn. It is not a bug secretion in the conventional sense, but rather a processed form of a natural substance.
Food Safety and Regulations
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the use of food additives, including confectioner‘s glaze. The FDA has approved confectioner‘s glaze as safe for human consumption in small amounts.
Debunking the Bug Secretion Myth
The claim that candy corn is coated with bug secretions is a myth that has been perpetuated over time. While confectioner’s glaze is derived from the secretions of lac beetles, these secretions are processed and refined to create a safe and edible food additive.
The Production Process
Candy corn is produced in a controlled and sanitary environment, ensuring that it meets all food safety standards. The use of confectioner’s glaze is closely monitored to ensure the safety and quality of the candy.
The Bottom Line: Enjoying Candy Corn Responsibly
Candy corn is a safe and enjoyable treat that can be consumed in moderation. The waxy outer layer is not coated with bug secretions but rather a food-grade glaze derived from natural sources. Consumers can indulge in this Halloween staple without fear of consuming any harmful substances.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Is candy corn really coated with bug secretions?
A: No, the waxy outer layer of candy corn is not coated with bug secretions. It is made with confectioner’s glaze, a food-grade shellac derived from the secretions of lac beetles.
Q: Is confectioner’s glaze safe to consume?
A: Yes, confectioner’s glaze is a safe and edible food additive approved by the FDA. It is used in small amounts to provide a glossy finish and a protective layer to candy.
Q: Why is candy corn waxy?
A: The waxy outer layer of candy corn is created by the confectioner’s glaze. This glaze helps to prevent the candy from sticking together and maintains its shape.
Q: Is candy corn made with real corn?
A: No, candy corn is not made with real corn. It is made primarily with sugar, corn syrup, water, and confectioner’s glaze.
Q: What is the origin of the candy corn bug secretion myth?
A: The myth likely originated from the misconception that confectioner’s glaze is a direct secretion from lac beetles. However, the glaze undergoes a processing and refining process to make it safe for consumption.
