Sweet Michigan holiday treats

Local company holds world record for holiday treat

Dec. 18, 2024

Cookies, fudge and chocolates.

They often fill the homes of many Michiganders this time of year, though another confection also tempts the taste buds of young and old alike.

Sometimes, it might be in the form of the iconic candy cane—for which Lansing-based Fabiano's Chocolates and Ice Cream in 1998 created the largest on record (36 feet, 7 inches long and 4 inches in diameter).

Other times, lemon drops, LIFESAVERS® or the multi-colored, holiday favorite—ribbon candy—might be the favorite.

In the 17th century, as prices of sugar decreased, the manufacture of hard candy increased.

By the mid-1800s, more than 400 companies started manufacturing hard candy.

“Rarely is Enbridge Line 5 associated with the manufacture of candy,” said Paul Meneghini, Enbridge’s manager of community engagement in Michigan, “but it plays a pivotal role. In particular, sugar is the primary ingredient of hard candy, and candymakers rely on product from Line 5 to deliver that sugar.”

Meneghini explains that product from Line 5 also is essential to making fertilizer, as well as the manufacture of the farm equipment integral to the sugar-growing and harvesting process.

 

“Life takes energy in many forms. For hard candy to be available in stores or online requires energy for the basic ingredients that comes from farming as well as the energy it takes to deliver the raw or finished product. The world is interconnected.”

—Paul Meneghini, Enbridge community engagement manager

After harvesting, sugar cane stalks are transported to a mill and cut into shreds. Large rollers then press and capture the juice. Another piece of equipment (centrifuge) removes the liquid and produces the raw sugar.

“Farmers do the hard work to grow and harvest sugar crops, and product transported safely each day through Line 5 supports their efforts,” said Meneghini.

“From the fuel for the equipment and transportation to candymakers’ molds and stovetops, Line 5 is important to the process of making those wonderful candy canes and other hard candy that millions of us enjoy.”

On Dec. 19, designated as National Hard Candy Day, you may find many Michiganders enjoying sweet treats as they prepare for the upcoming holidays.