New title from Springer explores science and side effects of commercial confections industry

Have you ever wondered what makes those delectable little gummy bears gummy? Or why sugary candies cause cavities? Then Springer's new book - Candy Bites - should be at the top of your reading list. The new title provides a virtual stroll through the old time candy shops of childhood, providing a deeper appreciation for the science and sociology of candy.

The engaging, accessible and often humorous approach of Candy Bites provides answers to some of the most pressing candy questions, like what makes bubble gum bubbly, or a Charleston Chew chewy. By exploring the chemistry of a candy store stocked with all of the famous treats - from Tootsie Rolls to Pixie Styx, and Jawbreakers to Jordan almonds - the book is sure to entertain, engage and educate readers with a behind-the-scenes look at our favorite guilty pleasures.

While Candy Bites may be chock-full of tasty insight into candy chemistry, it also tackles important history, consequences and side effects of a massive, global confections industry hawking sweets to the tune of billions of dollars. By confronting myths like, "the sugar high," to diving into the connection between sweets and obesity, this new title deals with some of the more serious notes where sugary indulgence and manufacturing are concerned.

Candy Bites is available immediately from Springer, and may be purchased in print or in eBook formats from springer.com.

Richard Hartel is a Professor of Food Science at the University of Wisconsin. In addition to an active research program and teaching numerous undergraduate classes, he teaches an annual summer candy course co-sponsored with the candy industry. He was given the Stroud-Jordan award in 2012 from the American Association of Confectionery Technologists for his contributions to the industry.

AnnaKate Hartel is a graduate of Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin. She currently lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and is pursuing a career in education assessment. Her favorite candy is the Snickers bar.