Jawbreakers, also known as gobstoppers in the United Kingdom, are a classic type of hard candy known for their size, colorful layers, and long-lasting nature. These candies have been a beloved treat for generations, offering a unique challenge for those willing to take the time to enjoy them. In this article, we’ll explore the history, production process, cultural significance, and varieties of jawbreakers, as well as their place in popular culture and the world of confectionery.
The History of Jawbreakers
Origins
The history of jawbreakers can be traced back to the 19th century. The term “gobstopper” was first recorded in the early 20th century, deriving from the words “gob,” meaning mouth, and “stopper,” referring to the candy’s ability to occupy the mouth for an extended period. The candy’s origins are somewhat unclear, but it is believed that jawbreakers were initially made in small batches by local confectioners before becoming popularized by larger candy manufacturers.
Industrialization and Popularity
The industrial revolution and advancements in candy-making technology in the late 19th and early 20th centuries allowed for mass production of candies, including jawbreakers. In the United States, the Ferrara Pan Candy Company, founded in 1908 by Salvatore Ferrara, became one of the leading producers of jawbreakers. The company’s production methods and marketing strategies helped solidify jawbreakers as a popular candy choice throughout the 20th century.
How Jawbreakers Are Made
The Manufacturing Process
Making jawbreakers is a complex and time-consuming process due to the candy’s multiple layers and hardness. The traditional method of producing jawbreakers involves a technique known as “panning,” which takes place in large rotating pans. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
- Core Creation: The process begins with the creation of the core. This is often a small sugar-based sphere that will form the center of the jawbreaker.
- Layering: The core is placed in a large, rotating pan, and liquid sugar is added gradually. As the pan rotates, the sugar evenly coats the core, forming a thin layer. This process is repeated multiple times, with each layer drying before the next one is added. The layers are typically colored and flavored, contributing to the jawbreaker’s distinctive appearance and taste.
- Coloring and Flavoring: As the layers build up, different colors and flavors can be added to create a variety of effects. This is what gives jawbreakers their characteristic multi-colored, multi-flavored composition.
- Polishing: Once the desired size is achieved, the jawbreakers are polished to give them a shiny, appealing finish. This is done by adding a small amount of confectioner’s glaze to the pan.
- Packaging: After polishing, the jawbreakers are ready to be packaged and distributed. They are often sold in bulk or individually wrapped.
Size and Hardness
Jawbreakers are known for their extreme hardness, which is achieved through the panning process and the crystallization of sugar. The size of a jawbreaker can vary significantly, ranging from small, marble-sized candies to large versions that are several inches in diameter. The larger the jawbreaker, the more time it takes to consume, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a long-lasting candy experience.
Varieties of Jawbreakers
Classic Jawbreakers
The traditional jawbreaker features multiple layers of sugar, each with a different color and flavor. These classic versions are often associated with childhood memories and remain a staple in candy stores worldwide.
Sour Jawbreakers
For those who enjoy a tangy twist, sour jaw breakers offer an exciting alternative. These candies incorporate sour flavors into the layers or add a sour coating to the outer shell, providing an extra burst of flavor.
Hot Jawbreakers
Hot jawbreakers, also known as “atomic fireballs,” add a spicy kick to the traditional candy. These jawbreakers contain cinnamon or other spicy flavors, making them a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweets.
Novelty Jawbreakers
Novelty jawbreakers come in various shapes and sizes, often designed to appeal to specific themes or occasions. These can include jaw breakers with unusual shapes, such as skulls or planets, or those that incorporate unusual flavors and color patterns.
Jawbreakers in Popular Culture
Literature and Film
Jawbreakers have appeared in various forms of media, often symbolizing childhood, nostalgia, and the allure of candy. One notable example is Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” where gobstoppers are featured as one of Willy Wonka’s imaginative creations. The 1999 film “Jawbreaker” also draws inspiration from the candy, using it as a central plot device in a dark comedy about high school cliques.
Music
Jawbreakers have made their way into music, often mentioned in songs that evoke memories of youth and carefree days. The candy’s distinctive name and vibrant appearance make it a popular choice for songwriters looking to capture the essence of nostalgia and playfulness.
Art and Collectibles
The unique appearance of jawbreakers has inspired artists and designers to incorporate them into various forms of art. From colorful paintings to sculptures made entirely of candy, jaw breakers continue to capture the imagination of creative minds.
The Cultural Significance of Jawbreakers
Nostalgia and Childhood
For many, jaw breakers are synonymous with childhood, evoking memories of candy stores, schoolyards, and carefree days. Their long-lasting nature and vibrant colors make them a favorite among children, who enjoy the challenge of savoring the candy over an extended period.
A Symbol of Patience and Perseverance
The process of consuming a jawbreaker requires patience and perseverance, as the candy cannot be chewed or consumed quickly. This aspect of jawbreakers has contributed to their symbolic significance as a metaphor for taking one’s time and enjoying the journey rather than rushing to the destination.
Global Appeal
Jawbreakers have a universal appeal, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. Their widespread popularity can be attributed to their timeless nature and the joy they bring to people of all ages.
Jawbreakers in the World of Confectionery
A Staple in Candy Stores
Jawbreakers have remained a staple in candy stores and confectionery shops for decades. Their distinctive appearance and long shelf life make them a popular choice for retailers and consumers alike.
Collectibility and Specialty Markets
Some jawbreakers are marketed as collectible items, with limited edition releases and unique designs appealing to collectors and candy enthusiasts. Specialty markets often feature jaw breakers with exotic flavors or artistic designs, catering to a niche audience seeking something beyond the traditional candy experience.
Challenges and Competitions
Jawbreakers have inspired various challenges and competitions, where participants attempt to consume large or particularly hard jaw breakers within a set time. These events highlight the candy’s unique properties and add an element of excitement and competition to the world of confectionery.
Health Considerations
Sugar Content
Like most candies, jawbreakers are high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption of sugary treats can contribute to dental issues and other health concerns.
Safety Precautions
Due to their hardness and size, jawbreakers can pose a choking hazard, particularly for young children. It is essential to supervise children while consuming these candies and ensure that they are aware of the importance of sucking rather than biting.
Alternatives and Innovations
In response to growing health concerns, some manufacturers have begun producing sugar-free or reduced-sugar versions of jawbreakers. These alternatives aim to provide the same long-lasting enjoyment with fewer health risks.
Conclusion
Jawbreakers are more than just a candy; they are a cultural icon with a rich history and enduring appeal. From their humble beginnings as a handmade treat to their status as a mass-produced confectionery favorite, jaw breakers have captured the hearts of candy lovers worldwide. Their unique characteristics, including their vibrant colors, multiple layers, and challenging consumption process, make them a timeless treat that continues to delight and fascinate people of all ages.
Whether you enjoy the classic variety, prefer a sour twist, or seek out novelty designs, jaw breakers offer a sweet adventure that transcends generations and brings joy to those willing to take the time to savor them. As we look to the future of confectionery, jaw breakers will undoubtedly remain a beloved and enduring symbol of the joy and wonder that candy can bring.
