At KorNutra, we understand that moisture control is one of the most challenging aspects of gummy production-especially when preventing center cracking during cooling. While the candy-can industry may have its own methods, the fundamental principle that gummy manufacturers should focus on is managing the moisture gradient within the gum base. This gradient occurs when the outer layer cools and solidifies faster than the interior, creating stress that can lead to cracks.
To minimize this, gummy manufacturers can take several key steps:
- Controlled cooling rates: Rather than rapid chilling, implement a gradual, staged cooling process. This allows the interior moisture to equilibrate with the outer layer, reducing differential shrinkage.
- Humidity management: Maintain stable, moderate humidity in the cooling environment. High humidity can cause surface condensation, while very low humidity accelerates moisture loss from the surface, both worsening the gradient.
- Ingredient formulation: Use humectants like glycerin or sorbitol in the gum base to retain moisture evenly. These help slow the moisture migration process during cooling.
- Post-cooling conditioning: Allow gummies to rest in a climate-controlled area after cooling before packaging. This “tempering” step lets the moisture gradient naturally stabilize.
It’s important to note that while comparing industries can offer inspiration, gummy manufacturers must adhere to strict quality and safety standards that may differ from candy-cane production. At KorNutra, we emphasize that no medical or health claims should be made about specific supplements or ingredients, and our recommendations are purely about manufacturing best practices for structural integrity. By focusing on these principles, gummy producers can achieve a uniform, crack-free product without referencing external industries’ methods.