National Gummi Worms Day
July 15
Although gummy bears have been around for almost 90 years, the gummy worm is a relatively recent phenomenon. German candy maker Hans Reigel came up with the gummy candy concept in 1922. The candy was in bear form and wasn’t shipped to America until around 1981. It was then that American candy manufacturer Trolli developed the gummy worm. Gummy worm making involves an artist carving a sketch into a small plaster mold. Once in the factory, candy makers pour ingredients such as gelatin, sugar and glucose syrup into large boilers. The ingredients are then heated before colors and flavorings are added. The process then moves into the production area, where the mix is poured into the molds and left for up to 5 days. Beeswax is added to make the worms less sticky.
National Cow Appreciation Day
July 15
All “cows” are female. Males are called bulls or steer. Before having a calf for the very first time, a female is called heifer. Then, once she has her first calf, she becomes a cow. There are over 800 different cattle breeds recognized worldwide. Cows can see almost 360 degrees. As a result of this near-panoramic view, they can watch for predators from all angles. However, they don’t see well straight in front of them and they will typically turn their head to look at you. Cows have an acute sense of smell and can detect odors up to six miles away. Cows have no upper front teeth. Therefore, when they’re eating food, they press their sharp bottom teeth against the top hard palate of their mouth to cut blades of grass.
Today’s Birthdays of Note….
Rembrandt – Painter – born in Leiden, Netherlands
Linda Ronstadt – Singer – born in Tucson, Arizona
