The Curious Case of Gelatin: A Journey Through Childhood to Adulthood

When I was a child, gelatin was one of those magical ingredients that transformed simple desserts into delightful culinary experiences. Growing up in an area rich with local specialties that featured gelatin, it was something to look forward to rather than question. As a sweet tooth, the prospect of dessert was a constant delight, and I couldn't imagine any connection between this gelatin and animal leftovers.

My Realization as a Vegetarian

It wasn't until I became a vegetarian at the age of 20 that I realized the true nature of gelatin. Living in a predominantly vegetarian household, I learned that gelatin is derived from animal parts, specifically pig bones and skin. This revelation came as quite a shock, and it marked the beginning of a period where I mostly avoided any products containing gelatin.

The Technical Insight of Gelatin

Working as an engineer, one of my tech support tasks involved interacting with a freelance electrical tech who was a regular caller from a gelatin processing plant. During these calls, I would listen as he described the processes involved in extracting gelatin from pig skins. He mentioned that he could no longer take gel cap medications containing gelatin, which further solidified my curiosity about the substance.

A Childhood Perspective

For a child, gelatin was a simple and innocent achievement. Whether it was on a birthday or during a school party, the promise of a delicious treat often came with the bribery of a slice of pie or similar dessert. These experiences helped to shape a positive association with gelatin, rather than any negative connotations.

Current Views and Confusion

It wasn't until more advanced age that the true origins of gelatin became a source of confusion and curiosity. Gelatin seemed so out of place, conjuring images of pigs and animal products, which were far from the imagined ingredients of dessert. However, the confusion was quickly lifted through simple bribery and the promise of a treat, which made it a harmless ingredient in the eyes of a child.

The Modern View

Now, as an adult, I still enjoy gelatin-based desserts like Dutch cheese cake, regardless of its origins. There is no reason to stop eating products containing gelatin just because of where it comes from. It's a personal choice based on dietary preferences and ethical considerations.

Summary and Conclusion

My journey with gelatin began as a child, where it was a delightful ingredient in desserts, and it continues to this day as a source of enjoyment. Despite the revelations about its origins, my personal consumption of gelatin remains a matter of preference and taste. This experience, along with the curiosity and confusion that followed, makes for an interesting vegetarian food and dietary journey.

So, does jello make you curious? Do you still enjoy it despite knowing its composition? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!