Sugar Sticks and Rock Candy
Candy sugar is a special form of sugar that is characterised by its
distinctive large crystals. These sugar crystals are produced in a special
manufacturing process that has a long tradition. On this page, we give you a
brief insight into the origins and production of sugar sticks and rock candy -
one of our sweetest product categories that complements our tea and coffee range
perfectly.
History and Origin of Rock Candy
The history of rock candy dates back to ancient India, where it was first
used as a form of sugar. The term ‘rock candy’ comes from the ancient Indian
word ‘khaṇḍa’, which means ‘part’ or ‘fragment’. In the 9th century, rock candy
travelled through the Arab world to Europe, where it was initially valued as a
remedy.
In the late Middle Ages, it gained popularity in trading cities
such as Venice and Marseille. Candy sugar became particularly popular in Europe
in the 18th and 19th centuries and was often used to sweeten tea and coffee,
where it was seen as a sign of prosperity.
Traditional production by crystallisation on threads developed over the
centuries and is still an integral part of tea culture in regions such as East
Frisia. Candy sugar therefore has a rich history that is closely linked to the
sugar trade and cultural exchange.
Characteristics of candy sticks
Candy sticks are a popular form of candy sugar:
- Each candy stick is unique due to the natural production process.
- The syrup crystallises on wooden sticks in special climatic chambers and
takes on an amber or crystal-white colour.
- The time it takes for the crystals to grow determines the weight of the
sticks.
- After crystallisation, the sticks are dried, subjected to quality control
and finally packaged by hand.
Candy production: The production of sugar sticks
The candy sugar production process is a fascinating and lengthy
process:
1.Sugar Solution:
A highly concentrated sugar
solution is prepared, typically with a ratio of about 50% sugar to 50%
water.
2. Crystallization:
Sugar crystals slowly
form in special containers and the sugar solution flows around
them.
3. Growth Phase:
This process can extend over several
days to weeks until the crystals reach the desired size.
4. Color
Variations:
White candy sugar is produced from pure glucose and
fructose concentrate. Brown candy sugar is made from a caramelised sugar
solution.
The use of rock candy and sugar sticks
Candy sugar is particularly popular with tea lovers. It is often enriched
with flavourings such as vanilla to give the drink an additional flavour. In
East Frisia, it is particularly common to sweeten strong tea with brown rock
sugar. There are also colourful rock candy sticks, which are not only
aesthetically pleasing but are also available in different flavours.
Candy can also be used for coffee drinks such as espresso and
cappuccino. Our range includes a large selection of classic rock candy in
various coarse grain sizes, flavoured rock candy with different flavours and a
wide variety of sugar sticks. They will sweeten any hot drink for your
customers.
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