Whether you’re fond of s’mores, gooey ice cream sundaes, Rice Krispies treats, or another type of decadent sweet, it’s likely the permeating taste and texture of the marshmallow that lingers in your memory — just as much as it did on your fingers.
While we often associate marshmallows with sugary desserts and cereals, the marshmallow as we recognize it today has an intriguing early history. As noted by The History Channel, the name marshmallow is derived from the marsh mallow plant, which thrives in marshy areas. Before marshmallows became the soft, squishy pillows you sandwich between graham crackers or sprinkle on hot chocolate, the marsh mallow plant was utilized in medicine.
Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Arabs used parts of the plant to treat inflammations, coughs, and as a wound healer. Marshmallows transitioned from a medicinal treatment to a delightful treat in France during the 19th century (via The History Channel). Initially, the gooey root juice of the marsh mallow plant provided the texture for marshmallows, but it was difficult to extract. Consequently, the root juice was eventually replaced by gelatin. Despite this crucial change, the name “marshmallow” persisted.
What other ingredients make up a marshmallow?
In addition to gelatin, which provides structure, marshmallows contain sugar, corn syrup, and water, as mentioned by Food Network. Occasionally, they also include other ingredients that influence taste and color. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, traditional marshmallows are off-limits due to gelatin being derived from animal protein. However, there are plant-based marshmallows made with ingredients like seaweed. They taste the same but may be less fluffy.
As expected, marshmallows offer little to no nutritional value. However, like most sweets, indulging in marshmallows occasionally is unlikely to cause health issues. That said, SFGate advises that consuming burned marshmallows too often could be unhealthy, as food tends to become more toxic when intentionally burned during cooking. Choosing to eat marshmallows raw or lightly toasted, instead of charred, is the safest way to enjoy them.
