Have you ever wondered how the colorful candy shells of M&Ms are created? These tiny chocolate candies are a favorite among people of all ages and are often used as toppings for desserts or as a snack. The process of coating M&Ms is a carefully crafted technique that involves several steps.
Step 1: Making the Center
The first step in creating M&Ms is making the center. The center of M&Ms is made of a mixture of sugar, chocolate, and other ingredients that are blended together to create a smooth paste. This paste is then molded into tiny spheres that will become the center of each M&M.
Step 2: Coating the Center
Once the centers have been created, they are coated with a layer of liquid sugar. This sugar coating helps to protect the center from moisture and also provides a base for the candy shell to adhere to.
Step 3: Coloring the Candy Shell
The candy shells of M&Ms are made of a mixture of sugar and corn syrup. This mixture is heated and then colored with food-grade dye. The colored candy shell is then poured onto the center of each M&M and allowed to harden.
Step 4: Polishing the Candy Shell
After the candy shells have hardened, they are polished to give them a shiny finish. The polishing process involves tumbling the M&Ms in a mixture of cornstarch and food-grade wax. This helps to remove any imperfections from the candy shell and gives it a smooth, polished appearance.
Step 5: Packaging
Once the M&Ms have been coated and polished, they are ready for packaging. M&Ms are packaged in small bags, boxes, or containers to keep them fresh and protected from moisture. They are then shipped to stores and ready for purchase.
Conclusion
The process of coating M&Ms is a complex and carefully crafted technique that involves several steps. From creating the center to polishing the candy shell, each step is essential in creating the perfect M&M. So, the next time you enjoy a handful of M&Ms, you can appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into creating these delicious candies.