Gelatin is a jelly-like substance made from the collagen in the bones of many animals, like fish, cattle, and pigs. Most marshmallows sold in stores have gelatin in them. Even though a lot of gelatin comes from the bones of pigs, the sweet marshmallow has no meat in it.
The pink-flowered Althaea officinalis mallow plant, which the ancient Egyptians liked to eat and often used as a cure for a number of illnesses, is the ancestor of marshmallows made for sale. Modern marshmallows are mostly made of sugar, egg whites, and gelatin, which comes from the collagen of many animals and is used as a glue. Marshmallows are a popular treat that can be eaten on their own or used to make other treats, like s’mores and Marshmallow Peeps.