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Marshmallows are used in S'mores, Mallomars, Peeps, Whippets and other candy, Rice Krispie treats, ice cream flavors such as Rocky Road, on top of hot chocolate and candied yams, and in several other foodstuffs. Americans eat about of marshmallows per year.

Roasted or toasted marshmallows

Dietary preferences

The traditional marshmallow recipe uses powdered marshmallow root, which may be difficult to obtain. Most commercially manufactured marshmallows instead use gelatin in their manufacture, which many vegetarians avoid, as it is derived from animal hides and bones.

An alternative for vegetarians is to use substitute non-meat gelling agents such as agar for gelatin. However, other vegetable gums often make an unsatisfactory product that does not have the spring or firmness expected of gelatin-based marshmallows.Fact: date=February 2009

Marshmallow Fluff and other less firm marshmallow products generally contain little or no gelatin, which mainly serves to allow the familiar marshmallow confection to retain its shape. They generally use egg whites instead. Non-gelatin versions of this product may be consumed by ovo vegetarians. Ricemellow Creme, similar to Fluff, contains no egg whites, as well as no gelatin, and, therefore, is suitable for vegans.

Commercial kosher pareve marshmallows often use fish gelatin (fish being deemed not to be meat in kashrut).Fact: date=February 2009

See also

• Chocolate-coated marshmallow treats
• Chubby Bunny, children's game involving marshmallows
• Marshmallow creme
• Stay Puft Marshmallow Man

External links

• The History of Marshmallows
• How To Make Your Own Marshmallows
• The Marshmallow Explained at HowStuffWorks.com
• National Confectioners Association: The Marshmallow.