I’ve had this idea in my head that Haribo is the creator of the gummy, but I think I might be wrong. As is the case with many inventions, the person that is credited with the creation may have only created a popular version, and not really the first. I feel like gummies or jellies have been around the Mediterranean and the Middle East for a very long time (it’s possible that it’s been around other parts of the world too, I don’t know). This jelly roll is the perfect example of what I think as BGB gummies (Before Gummy Bears).

I think the main difference one finds with a candy like this compared to a gummy bear, or just about any modern gummy candy, is the fact that these aren’t really as visually interesting. The only decoration you’re getting with these is a coating of pistachio nuts. While this may be appetizing to some, I don’t think they’re nearly as fun. The fact that many of these jellies are nut or flower flavoured might also make them a little “less fun” as well. They also might not appeal to some people as floral flavours and savoury jellies don’t really appeal to everyone.

Don’t get me wrong, this is a sweet candy, but it has a certain element of savoury and perfume as well. I personally like rose water and so the hint of it made me very happy, but I know some people really don’t like it. The nuts add a little flavour and a little texture, but that was actually the part I felt lacked a little in this particular example. I would have enjoyed much more crunch and a stronger pistachio flavour in this case.

I’ve had a few jelly/gummy/delight candies from various parts of the world and this was fine. It’s not my favourite since I feel it needs a little more pistachio. I did however like that it made me think about the history of jelly candy, and that maybe making them into fun shapes is the credit that Haribo deserves, not the creation of an entire candy category.