ROLO

Introduction

ROLO is a beloved brand known for its signature combination of rich chocolate and creamy caramel. First invented in England in 1937, the brand was later brought to the United States and has been produced by The Hershey Company since 1969. The founders of ROLO sought to create a delightful candy that combined the smoothness of caramel with the richness of chocolate, resulting in a treat that has endured through generations and continues to capture the hearts of candy lovers.

The philosophy behind ROLO revolves around the idea of indulgence and sharing. The brand emphasizes the joy that comes from enjoying a treat that balances flavors and provides a satisfying texture. With a focus on bringing people together, ROLO has become synonymous with special moments, whether it's a quiet evening at home, a festive gathering, or a simple act of kindness shared between friends. This philosophy is reflected in the brand's commitment to quality ingredients and a delightful taste experience.

What makes ROLO special is not just its iconic taste but also its versatility. ROLO candies can be enjoyed on their own, used as ingredients in various recipes, or given as thoughtful gifts, making them an integral part of celebrations and everyday moments alike. Additionally, the unique packaging with its classic gold foil adds a touch of nostalgia and excitement, further enhancing the experience of enjoying ROLO.

Signature Products

The ROLO product line is designed to cater to a variety of occasions and taste preferences, all while maintaining the brand's signature caramel-chocolate allure.

• ROLO® Creamy Caramels : Classic candy featuring smooth caramel enrobed in rich chocolate.
• ROLO® Dark Salted Caramel : A delightful twist on the original, combining dark chocolate with a hint of salt for a sophisticated flavor.
• ROLO® Holiday Creamy Caramels : The traditional ROLO shape but presented in festive packaging, perfect for the holiday season.

Materials and Ingredients Used by ROLO

• Safflower Oil : This ingredient is a type of vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the safflower plant. It is often used in food products for frying or baking due to its high smoke point and mild flavor, making it suitable for various candy applications in ROLO® caramels.
• Milk : Milk is a vital ingredient in many confections, providing creaminess and richness to the texture of ROLO® candies. It also contributes to the flavor profile, helping to create a smooth, creamy caramel that pairs well with chocolate.
• Corn : Corn, often processed into corn syrup or corn starch, is a key ingredient that can enhance the sweetness and texture of ROLO® candies. It helps in creating a chewy consistency, which is essential for the iconic caramel center.
• Vegetable Oil : A blend of different plant-based oils, vegetable oil is commonly used in candy production for its versatility and neutral taste. In ROLO®, it aids in the smoothness of the chocolate coating and helps maintain the desired texture.
• Salt : Salt is used in confectionery to enhance flavor. In ROLO® candies, it balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, providing a delightful contrast that elevates the overall taste experience.
• Sunflower : Sunflower oil is derived from sunflower seeds and is often used in food products for its light flavor and health benefits. In ROLO®, it may be utilized for frying or as a stabilizing agent in the chocolate and caramel layers.
• Soybean : Soybean oil, derived from soybeans, is an ingredient commonly used for its emulsifying properties, which assist in achieving a smooth and uniform texture in food products like ROLO® chocolates.
• Palm Oil : Extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree, palm oil is used in many candies for its ability to provide structure and stability. In ROLO®, it contributes to the creamy texture and helps the chocolate maintain its shape during storage.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From ROLO

Water Usage:

The production of agricultural commodities such as safflower oil, milk, and sunflower often involves significant water usage, leading to resource depletion, especially in areas already dealing with scarcity. For example, California's Central Valley, a major player in dairy production, faces severe drought conditions exacerbated by extensive agricultural water use. Such intensive water requirements can drain local water reserves, impact community access to clean water, and alter natural ecosystems that depend on consistent water flows.

Pesticide Usage:

Safflower, corn, and sunflower crops are frequently treated with pesticides to maximize yield. However, excessive pesticide use can lead to groundwater contamination, harm beneficial insects, and pose health risks to agricultural workers. For instance, the pesticide runoff into the Gulf of Mexico has created a 'dead zone,' a hypoxic area affecting marine life and impacting fisheries due to nutrient overload from agricultural sources.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Producing milk involves high greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from methane released by cows during digestion and nitrous oxide from manure management. For example, the dairy industry in New Zealand contributes significantly to the country's methane emissions, illustrating the broader issues of livestock-related climate impacts. Similarly, processing and transporting vegetable and soybean oils contribute to carbon emissions, exacerbating global warming.

Deforestation:

Deforestation is a critical issue tied to the production of palm oil and soybeans. Forests are cleared to create plantations, leading to habitat loss for countless species and increased carbon emissions. Indonesia's tropical rainforests, for instance, suffer from massive deforestation rates driven by palm oil cultivation, jeopardizing biodiversity and contributing to cross-border haze pollution.

Biodiversity Loss:

The expansion of agricultural lands for palm oil, soybean, and vegetable oil often leads to biodiversity loss. This change erases critical habitats, such as those in the Amazon rainforest, threatening biodiversity and disrupting ecosystem services. Such impacts are irreversible and challenge conservation efforts aiming to protect endangered species.

Soil Degradation:

Growing monocultures like corn and soybean can degrade the soil over time due to nutrient depletion and erosion. The American Midwest, for example, faces soil erosion issues compounded by extensive corn farming practices leading to reduced agricultural productivity and increased vulnerability to floods and droughts.

Habitat Disruption:

Salt mining and sunflower cultivation can disrupt natural habitats. Salt extraction, particularly from ocean beds or salt flats, can alter local ecosystems and affect species that rely on salt-based environments. Similarly, sunflower farming can disturb land habitats, affecting local fauna and flora.

Animal Welfare:

The dairy industry's focus on maximizing milk production can compromise animal welfare. Practices involve confined housing and separation of calves, raising ethical issues and diminishing the quality of life for dairy cows. The industrialization of dairy farms underscores the need for sustainable and humane farming standards.

Social Impacts:

Palm oil production often involves social challenges, including land rights disputes and unfair labor practices. In some regions, indigenous communities are displaced or exploited, highlighting the need for fair trade practices and corporate responsibility in maintaining ethical supply chains.