DIY vitamin C gummies fail – need help with gelatin/agar ratios!
So I'm trying to make my own Emergen-C style gummies at home. Got some vitamin C powder (ascorbic acid), B complex powder, and gelatin. First batch was a disaster – they turned into a sticky goo that never set. I used 1 tbsp gelatin per cup of liquid but maybe too much vit C? Anyone have a reliable recipe? I'm aiming for 750mg per gummy but also don't want to OD on gelatin. Also, can I use agar for a vegan version? Help a biohacker out!
Hey Pete, I've been down this rabbit hole. Night shift worker here, so I rely on these for immunity. Pro tip: vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can inhibit gelatin setting if you add too much. I usually dissolve gelatin first in warm water, then add the vitamin C after it's off the heat. Also, add a bit of honey or agave as a humectant. For 750mg per gummy, you need to calculate total powder per batch. I use a silicone mold and make 30 gummies, so I add 22.5g of vit C total. Works like a charm. But careful with B vitamins – too much niacin can cause flushing. Start low.
Agar works but it's tricky! It sets firmer than gelatin and can be gritty if you don't boil it enough. I'm vegan so I've experimented a lot. Use 1 tsp agar powder per cup of liquid, boil for 2 mins, then add your vitamin powders off heat. But note: agar gummies tend to sweat in the fridge. Also, vitamin C is heat-sensitive, so add it after the mixture cools to about 50°C. And please, don't use gelatin – it's made from animal bones. There are plenty of plant-based options like pectin too. Good luck!
Bro, why not just buy the Emergen-C gummies? I get the 45-count bottle and it's way easier. But if you're set on DIY, I've had success with gelatin from grass-fed cows. Key is to bloom the gelatin in cold water first, then melt. And don't forget to add some citric acid for tartness – it also helps with preservation. I throw in a scoop of BCAA powder for recovery, but that's just me. Crossfit life! Also, if your batch failed, try adding a bit more gelatin next time. And yeah, B vitamins can taste nasty, so mask with strong flavors like orange or raspberry.
Thanks everyone! I'll try the agar route since I have some on hand. Nancy, how do you prevent the sweating? And Greg, I'll check the store-bought ones but I'm on a biohacking kick so I want to control the dose. Huber, I'll reduce the vit C and add it later. Will report back with results!