Sour candy gets its sourness from a combination of acids, sugar, and food additives. The most common acids used in sour candy include citric acid, malic acid, fumaric acid, and tartaric acid
. These acids yield hydrogen ions when they come into contact with saliva in our mouths, stimulating specific taste bud receptors on our tongues and triggering a sour taste sensation
. Candy makers can achieve varying levels of sourness by using different types and quantities of acidic ingredients
. In addition to acids, sugar, fruit, corn syrup, and gelatin are also essential ingredients used to bring out the sour flavor of sour treats
