It took five years. The process started in 2011, the reformulation of Katjes' diverse line of gelatin-based gummies, that is.

What can turn a crusty curmudgeon of an editor into an excitable boy? Well, certainly a visit to the world’s largest confectionery exposition, ISM 2016, which was held in Cologne Jan. 31 – Feb. 3.

While candy may not seem like the first thing many would imagine a vegetarian sacrificing, those in the confectionery industry know why those who stick to plants have avoid marshmallows and gummiesl — gelatin.

Editor-in-Chief Bernie Pacyniak shares highlights and insight from this year’s 43rd International Sweets & Biscuits Fair.