Comparing Global Confectionery Trends: Freeze-Dried World Wide

Comparing Global Confectionery Trends: Freeze-Dried World Wide

Welcome to the vivid, full-flavored world of freeze-dried candies. At Crunch Punch, we put the crunch back in your munch! This blog will take you on a world tour through the growing trends within the freeze-dried candy industry: from Tokyo's streets to the markets of Mexico City, unlocking the innovation within different cultures as they revel in and continue to expand your candy horizons—maybe even inspiring your taste buds.

The Rise of Freeze-Dried Candies

Freeze drying is an amazing process that robs candy of its liquid, leaving it airy and light but with the essence of the original taste intact. The combination both preserves the candy and creates a new experience for the palate. Something used by space programs for their astronauts to eat in space now sits on candy shelves in country after country.

North America: From Crunch to Munch

In the United States and Canada, gourmet freeze-dried candies are an artisan craze. Whether it is a traditional chocolate or one of these newfangled exotic fruits, both small-batch artisans and large manufacturers are trying their hand at everything. A prime example is how this once humble gummy bear has turned into something ethereal and crunchy yet toothsome. Here in the States, they are used within snack mixes or even added to yogurt.

Europe: Exotic and Crafted Turns

Freeze-dried sweet products in Europe are oriented towards luxury and tradition. French chocolatiers use freeze-dried raspberries and strawberries in dark chocolate in order to retain a crunchy contrast within the creamy matrix of the rest of the chocolate. In Scandinavia, they take freeze-dried lingonberries and cloudberries and cover them with milk chocolate to further perfect the dual balance between sweet and tart.

Asia: Innovation and Taste Explosions

Asia is a leading innovator, with Japan and South Korea as pioneers in the use of freeze-drying technology. Japan offers an assortment of freeze-dried sweets, which are the world-renowned mochi balls, as well as exotic fruits such as durian. These sweets do not merely serve as snacks, but are also part of the culture of gift-giving, with special occasions or festivals being an ideal celebration for them. Popular in South Korea are their freeze-dried honey melon bites that show affection to unique and tasty adventures.

Latin America: Tropical Treats Take the Stage

The tropical and scrappy taste of Latin America can be brought to light perfectly in this type of fruit through freeze-drying. Mexican chili mango bites use the tangy sweetness of the fruit and add a rush from chili powder to give it a candy experience that is familiar yet excitingly new. The acai berries of Brazil are considered a treasure house of nutrition; they are converted to crunchy, nutrients-packed candies loved by both local and international markets.

 

Traveling through the varied landscapes of freeze-dried candies from around the world, one thing appears very clear: this newfangled candy has captured people's hearts — and mouths. Any country puts in its nuances and inspiration to freeze-dry, whether that means enjoying local flavors or converting old-fashioned treats into something unusual and crunchy. With global trends as an inspiration, Crunch Punch is raring to go and keep on exploring all the delicious possibilities of freeze-dried candies. Dive into our unique flavors: Crunchy Rainbows, Sour Crunchy Rainbows, Tropical Burst, Blue Starballs, Fruity Starballs, and Sour Starballs.

Come experience this crunchy revolution with us. You can add new cultural flavors to your candy collection with Crunch Punch. Every bite is an adventure!

Previous Post Next Post

Related Posts

What Candy is Best Freeze-Dried?

What Candy is Best Freeze-Dried?

As the confectionery industry continues to innovate, freeze-dried candy has emerged as a fascinating and popular trend. Freeze-drying, a process that removes moisture from the candy while retaining its original flavor and nutritional value, results in unique textures and intensified flavors that appeal to a wide range of consumers. However, not all candies are suitable for freeze-drying.

Learn more
Crunch Punch Freeze Dried Candy - Sour Starballs Billboard

A Clear Guide for Fans of Sweet Treats on How to Make Freeze-Dried Candy

How to Make Freeze-Dried Candy: A Simple Guide for Sweet Treat Lovers Introduction Freeze-drying candy at home is a fun and innovative way to enjoy sweets with an extended shelf life and a novel texture. This preservation method removes moisture from candy by freezing it and then reducing the surrounding pressure to allow the frozen water in the candy to sublimate directly from ice to vapor. Home enthusiasts can experiment with different types of sweets, discovering which candies best retain their flavor and color after the freeze-drying process. Getting Started Before embarking on the adventure of making freeze-dried candy, it is important to choose the right type of candy and acquire the necessary equipment. Setting up a clean workspace is also crucial for an efficient freeze-drying process. Choosing the Right Candy Not all candies are suitable for freeze-drying. Skittles and Starburst Minis generally yield the best results. While gummy candies are easy to make, they do not taste as good as Skittles or Sour Skittles after the freeze-drying process. Avoid candies that are high in fat, as these do not freeze-dry well. Skittles and Starburst Minis, on the other hand, retain their vibrant flavors and achieve a satisfying crunch that makes them perfect for freeze-drying. Essential Equipment To make freeze-dried candy at home, having the right equipment is crucial: Home Freeze Dryer: A must-have for achieving the required conditions for freeze-drying. Some popular models include: Harvest Right Freeze Dryers: Known for their reliability and efficiency. Labconco FreeZone Freeze Dryers: Ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Millrock Technology Freeze Dryers: Advanced features for professional results. Airtight Containers: To ensure extended shelf life after drying, use high-quality containers to protect the candy from moisture and humidity. Prepare Your Workspace Ensure the workspace is clean and organized before starting. Gather parchment paper, a baking sheet, and make space in the freezer if using a non-machine method. The parchment paper will prevent sticking, and the baking sheet should have enough room to space out the candy pieces. The Freeze Drying Process Freeze drying candy transforms it into a crunchy, indulgent treat through a process involving specific temperatures and pressure changes. This method ensures even freezing and water removal, which is essential for creating that distinct texture of freeze-dried candy. Pre-treatment Procedures If using candies like Nerds Rope, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even drying. When freeze-drying Skittles, it's crucial to leave enough space between each candy. This spacing is essential for achieving the beautiful, freeze-dried round shape that Skittles are known for. Properly spaced candies allow for better airflow and more consistent freezing and drying results. The Freezing Phase The candy needs to be frozen solid, typically carried out in a deep freezer or with the aid of dry ice. Temperatures should reach between -30° and -50°F (-34° and -45°C) for optimal results. A regular freezer may suffice, but the process will be slower and potentially less consistent than using a specialized freeze dryer. Final Drying and Sealing Once frozen, the candy undergoes a vacuum process to remove all moisture, translating to that airy, crunchy texture. The freeze-drying process involves gradually warming the candy in a vacuum to sublimate ice directly into vapor. After drying, the candy is sealed in airtight containers to protect its texture and extend shelf life. Sealing immediately locks in the freshness and crispness of the candy, making it ready for storage or consumption. Remember that each candy has its own specific temperature to make it the best and the most crunchy freeze-dried candy ever. After Freeze Drying   After the candies have been freeze-dried, they must be stored properly to maintain their quality and extend their shelf life. The key is to keep them dry and airtight. Post-Drying Storage Once candies are freeze-dried, they should immediately be transferred to airtight containers to protect them from moisture and humidity. The storage options include: Sealed bags: Heavy-duty freezer bags with zip-top seals can effectively keep out air and humidity. Vacuum-sealed containers: These offer an extra level of protection, keeping the freeze-dried candies crisp and fresh. It's important to label each container or bag with the date of freeze drying to help track shelf life and ensure candies are consumed when they are at their best quality. Maintaining Quality To maintain the best quality of freeze-dried candies: Avoid exposure to moisture: Ensure that the storage area is low in humidity to prevent the candy from reabsorbing water from the air. Limit temperature fluctuations: Stable temperatures help preserve the candy's texture and taste. Avoid storing them where temperatures change frequently. Use within the optimal period: While freeze-dried candies can last for years, they are usually best enjoyed within the first few months of drying to ensure the taste is at its peak. Exploring Candy Varieties Before diving into the freeze-drying process, it's important to understand that not all candies yield the same results. The selection of candy is crucial, as different types respond uniquely to the freeze-drying method. Best Candies for Freeze Drying Skittles: Their hard shell and chewy center transform into a light, crunchy treat. Gummy Candies: Including gummy bears, gummy worms, and peach rings; they puff up and provide an airy texture. Starburst: They become more crumbly and intensely flavored once freeze-dried. Marshmallows: They're perfect for freeze drying, turning into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy. Certain candies like hard candies and milk duds may retain their initial hardness but often take on a more brittle texture. Candy corn, with its unique texture, freeze dries well and provides a novel eating experience. However, one should note that chocolate candies can be tricky, as their high-fat content might affect the end result, often causing them to become powdery. Handling Different Textures When freeze drying different types of candy, it's important to consider how their original textures will alter: Chewy Candies: Such as gummy candies, often expand and become crispy. Hard Candies: The process typically makes them more fragile, shattering easily into crunchy pieces. Flavor and Texture Enhancement In the process of freeze-drying candy, careful attention to detail can significantly enhance the flavor and texture, leading to a delightful and intensified eating experience. Ensuring Intense Flavor Profiles One can ensure the preservation of candy flavor and even enhance it during the freeze-drying process. The absence of moisture content concentrates the flavors, providing an intense flavor profile that is more pronounced than in its original state. It's critical to start with high-quality candies that are known for their rich flavors. Gummies, for instance, become remarkably flavorful when freeze-dried, offering a burst of taste with each bite. Key Factors for Intense Flavors Initial Candy Quality: Choose candies with strong, distinct flavors. Moisture Removal: Thorough dehydration through freeze-drying amplifies the original flavors. The Role of Texture in Freeze-Dried Candy The texture is paramount in freeze-dried candy, transforming chewy or soft candies into a crispy texture that provides a satisfying crunch. This unique texture not only appeals to the senses but also enhances the overall experience of the candy by adding a new dimension to its consumption. The removal of moisture is key, creating a dry and brittle texture, which results in an unexpected and crunchy sensation. Noteworthy Textural Changes Chewy to Crispy: Marshmallows and gummy candies transition from a soft chew to an airy crisp. Moist to Dry: Higher moisture candies, like fruits coated in chocolate, become delightfully brittle. Are you interested in how to make freeze-dried candy at home without a professional machine?

Learn more
What is Freeze-Dried Candy?

What is Freeze-Dried Candy?

Welcome to the sweetest corner of the internet! If you have ever wanted to know what the newest candy craze is, then you are in the right place. Today we are gearing up to dive into the wonderful world of freeze-dried candy. Are you ready? Let's go!

Learn more

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.