Jawbreakers, also known as gobstoppers, are a classic candy with a long history and a reputation for being almost impossible to eat quickly. These multi-layered, hard-shelled candies have been a favorite among children and candy enthusiasts for generations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, making, and cultural impact of jawbreakers, as well as some fun facts and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a candy connoisseur or just curious about this iconic sweet treat, you’ll find everything you need to know about jawbreakers right here.
Introduction to Jawbreakers
Jawbreakers are a type of hard candy known for their extremely tough texture and multiple layers of color and flavor. The name “jawbreaker” is quite literal—these candies are so hard that they could potentially break a jaw if not eaten with caution. Unlike most candies, jawbreakers are meant to be savored slowly, as they dissolve over time, revealing new layers and tastes.
Jawbreakers come in various sizes, from small, bite-sized versions to massive candies that can take days or even weeks to finish. The process of consuming a jawbreaker is part of its charm, making it a unique candy experience.
The History of Jawbreakers
Origins
The history of jawbreakers dates back to the 19th century, with their origin closely tied to the development of candy manufacturing. The term “gobstopper” was first used in the United Kingdom, where it became a popular term for any large, hard candy. The name “jawbreaker” later became the American counterpart.
Jawbreakers were originally handmade, with candy makers carefully layering sugar syrups over a period of days or even weeks. As industrial candy-making processes evolved, jawbreakers became more widely available, and their popularity soared.
The Evolution of Jawbreakers
In the early 20th century, jawbreakers became a staple in American candy stores. The Ferrara Pan Candy Company, founded in 1908, is credited with mass-producing jawbreakers using a process known as “panning,” which allowed for the creation of the candy’s signature layers.
Over the years, jawbreakers have undergone various transformations. Today, they come in a wide range of colors, flavors, and sizes, appealing to both nostalgic adults and new generations of candy lovers.
How Jawbreakers Are Made
The Panning Process
The key to making jawbreakers lies in a technique called panning. Panning involves placing a small core, often a piece of candy or a sugar crystal, into a large rotating drum. As the drum rotates, layers of sugar syrup are gradually added, building up the candy’s size over time.
Each layer is allowed to harden before the next one is applied. This process can take several days or even weeks, depending on the desired size of the jawbreaker. The final product is a candy with multiple layers, each potentially featuring a different color and flavor.
Flavors and Colors
One of the most appealing aspects of jawbreakers is their variety of flavors and colors. As the candy is eaten, the outer layer dissolves to reveal a new layer beneath, each with its own unique taste and hue. Common flavors include fruit varieties like cherry, lemon, and lime, but there are also more exotic flavors like bubblegum or sour apple.
The coloring process is similar to the flavoring process, with each layer being dyed a different color. This creates the iconic rainbow effect that jawbreakers are known for.
Quality Control
Given the complexity of the panning process, quality control is essential in jawbreaker production. Candy manufacturers must ensure that each layer is evenly distributed and that the candy maintains its hardness throughout. Any imperfections in the layers can lead to a weaker structure, making the jawbreaker less durable.
Varieties and Flavors of Jawbreakers
Classic Jawbreakers
The traditional jawbreaker is typically about the size of a marble, with a smooth, glossy surface. These classic versions often come in assorted colors and flavors, offering a mix of fruit and sweet tastes as the layers dissolve.
Giant Jawbreakers
For those who enjoy a challenge, giant jawbreakers are available in sizes that can be as large as a baseball. These oversized candies are often sold individually and can take days or even weeks to consume. Some even come with a hollow center filled with bubblegum, adding an extra surprise for those who reach the core.
Sour Jawbreakers
In recent years, sour jawbreakers have gained popularity, particularly among those who enjoy a more intense candy experience. These jawbreakers feature a sour coating on the outer layer, which gradually gives way to sweeter layers underneath. The contrast between sour and sweet makes these a favorite for those who like bold flavors.
Novelty Jawbreakers
Jawbreakers have also found their way into the novelty candy market. These include jawbreakers with unique shapes, such as skulls or eyeballs, often themed for holidays like Halloween. Some novelty jawbreakers even glow in the dark or have unusual flavors like cola or licorice.
The Science Behind the Hardness
Why Are Jawbreakers So Hard?
The hardness of jawbreakers is a result of the panning process, where layer upon layer of sugar is added and allowed to harden. Each layer creates a new shell, and as more layers are added, the candy becomes increasingly dense and tough.
The sugar used in jawbreakers is heated to a high temperature, causing it to harden into a glass-like consistency. This process, known as sugar crystallization, is what gives jawbreakers their signature hardness.
The Physics of Eating a Jawbreaker
Eating a jawbreaker is a test of patience. Attempting to bite into one can be dangerous due to the candy’s extreme hardness. Instead, jawbreakers are meant to be slowly dissolved in the mouth. The saliva gradually breaks down the outer layer, revealing the next layer beneath.
The experience of eating a jawbreaker is also a journey through different flavors and textures. As each layer dissolves, a new flavor is revealed, making the process both challenging and rewarding.
Jawbreakers in Pop Culture
Movies and TV Shows
Jawbreakers have made numerous appearances in movies and TV shows, often symbolizing childhood or serving as a metaphor for something difficult to break. The 1999 film “Jawbreaker,” for example, uses the candy as a central plot device in a dark comedy about high school life.
In cartoons, jawbreakers are often depicted as a favorite treat of children, with exaggerated sizes that add to the comedic effect. The animated series “Ed, Edd n Eddy” famously featured jawbreakers as a recurring element, with the characters constantly scheming to acquire the elusive candies.
Music and Literature
Jawbreakers have also found their way into music and literature. In songs, they are often used metaphorically to represent something tough or unyielding. In literature, jawbreakers can symbolize nostalgia or the innocence of childhood.
Jawbreakers as Collectibles
For some, jawbreakers have become collectible items, particularly those with unique designs or limited-edition releases. Vintage jawbreakers, especially those from iconic candy brands, can be highly sought after by collectors.
Health Considerations and Safety Tips
Dental Health
One of the main concerns with jaw breakers is their potential impact on dental health. Due to their hardness, biting into a jawbreaker can lead to chipped or cracked teeth. It’s important to resist the urge to bite and instead let the candy dissolve naturally.
Additionally, jaw breakers are high in sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay if consumed frequently. As with any sugary treat, moderation is key.
Choking Hazards
Given their size and hardness, jawbreakers can pose a choking hazard, particularly for young children. It’s recommended that parents supervise children while they are eating jaw breakers and encourage them to enjoy the candy slowly.
Safe Consumption Tips
To safely enjoy a jawbreaker, it’s best to:
- Avoid biting into the candy
- Suck on the jawbreaker until it gradually dissolves
- Take breaks if the candy is large to prevent discomfort in the mouth
- Store jaw breakers in a cool, dry place to maintain their hardness
Fun Facts About Jawbreakers
- The largest jawbreaker on record weighed over 27 pounds and took more than 476 hours to make.
- Some jawbreakers have up to 100 layers, each with a different flavor or color.
- The world record for the most jaw breakers eaten in one minute is 10, a feat accomplished by carefully cracking them with teeth.
- Jaw breakers are a popular choice for science experiments, particularly in studies related to material hardness and structural integrity.
FAQ
How long does it take to finish a giant jawbreaker?
The time it takes to finish a giant jawbreaker varies depending on its size and how frequently it’s consumed. Some can take days or even weeks to complete, making them a long-term candy commitment.
Can jaw breakers actually break your jaw?
While it’s unlikely that a jawbreaker could literally break your jaw, biting into one could cause significant dental damage, such as chipped or cracked teeth. It’s best to let the candy dissolve slowly rather than attempting to chew it.
What is the largest size jawbreaker available?
Giant jaw breakers can be as large as 3-4 inches in diameter, with some novelty versions even larger. These oversized candies are often sold individually and are intended to be eaten over an extended period.
Are there sugar-free jaw breakers?
Yes, there are sugar-free versions of jaw breakers available for those who are looking to enjoy the candy without the added sugar. These alternatives use sugar substitutes and are often marketed as a healthier option.
Why do jaw breakers have multiple layers?
The multiple layers of a jawbreaker are created through the panning process, where sugar syrup is repeatedly added to a candy core. Each layer can be flavored and colored differently, providing a unique eating experience as the layers dissolve.
Conclusion
Jawbreakers are more than just a candy; they’re a cultural icon with a rich history and a unique place in the world of sweets. From their origins in traditional candy-making to their status as a beloved treat for children and adults alike, jaw breakers offer a one-of-a-kind experience that combines flavor, texture, and challenge.
Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood memories or discovering them for the first time, jaw breakers continue to be a fascinating and enduring part of candy culture. So the next time you pick up a jawbreaker, take your time and enjoy the journey through its many layers—just be careful not to bite down too hard!
