Blue Candy: A Sweet Dive into the World of Blue Treats

September 2, 2024August 23, 2024

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1. Introduction

What’s the Deal with Blue Candy?

Blue candy—it’s not just a treat; it’s an experience. I’ve always been fascinated by the vibrant hue that makes blue candies stand out in any candy dish. Whether it’s a deep royal blue or a light sky blue, there’s something magical about reaching for a piece of candy that’s this color. But what is it about blue candy that makes it so special? Is it the unique taste, the fun appearance, or the fact that it’s a bit of an anomaly in the candy world? Let’s dive in and find out.

Why I’m Obsessed with Blue Candy

Ever since I was a kid, blue candy has been my go-to treat. I remember going to the candy store and being drawn to anything blue, from lollipops to gummy bears. The color blue is calming yet exciting, and it always felt like a bit of an adventure to see what flavor I’d get. Would it be raspberry, blueberry, or something more mysterious? This obsession has only grown over the years, and now I want to share my passion for blue candies with you.

The Appeal of Blue Candy: A Personal Story

I recall a particular summer day when I discovered the joy of blue candies. My family was at a beach carnival, and I stumbled upon a stall selling blue raspberry cotton candy. The taste was unlike anything I’d had before—sweet, tart, and utterly addictive. That moment sparked a lifelong love for all things blue and sweet, and it’s a love I carry with me to this day.

2. History of Blue Candy

The Origin of Blue Candy: A Brief Overview

Believe it or not, blue candies candy wasn’t always as common as it is today. In the early days of candy making, blue was considered a challenging color to produce naturally. Most candies were red, yellow, or brown, colors that could be easily derived from fruits, spices, and caramelization processes. It wasn’t until the advent of artificial food coloring that blue candies became a viable option. The first blue candies were introduced in the early 20th century, with blue raspberry flavors leading the charge.

Iconic Blue Candies Through the Decades

Some blue candies have achieved iconic status over the years. For instance, the introduction of blue M&Ms in 1995 was a major event in the candy world. Before that, the M&M color palette didn’t include blue, but a public vote brought it into the fold, and it quickly became a fan favorite. Another iconic blue candy is the Blue Raspberry Jolly Rancher, which has been a beloved treat for decades. These candies have stood the test of time and continue to be popular today.

How Blue Candy Became a Trend

The popularity of blue candies can be attributed to several factors. For one, blue raspberry, despite not being a natural fruit flavor, became a beloved candy flavor thanks to its sweet-tart profile. Additionally, the color blue has always had a cool, refreshing appeal, which made blue candy perfect for summer treats. Social media has also played a role, with blue candies being featured in aesthetically pleasing photos and videos, further boosting their popularity.

3. Popular Types of Blue Candy

Hard Blue Candies

When it comes to hard candies, blue options are plentiful and beloved. Blue Raspberry Lollipops are perhaps the most famous, offering a long-lasting, sweet-tart flavor that’s hard to beat. Another favorite is Blue Peppermint Discs, which combine the refreshing taste of peppermint with the eye-catching blue hue.

Blue Gummies

If you prefer your candy soft and chewy, blue gummies are the way to go. Blue Gummy Bears are a classic choice, with a sweet blueberry flavor that’s both nostalgic and delicious. For something a bit more unique, Blue Shark Gummies offer a fun shape and a combination of fruity and creamy flavors that make them a hit at any gathering.

Blue Chocolate Treats

The blue chocolate candies are a bit more niche, but they’re no less delicious. Blue M&Ms are a standout, offering the same classic chocolate taste with an added visual appeal. Blue Candy-Coated Chocolate Almonds are another great option, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of chocolatey goodness.

4. Making Your Own Blue Candy at Home

Why DIY Blue Candy is the Best

There’s a certain magic in creating your own sweets, and making blue candy at home brings an extra layer of fun to the process. DIY blue candies allows you to be the master of your kitchen laboratory, mixing up the perfect shades of blue and crafting flavors that are uniquely yours. Here’s why making your own blue candy at home is a sweet endeavor worth trying:

Ingredient Control: When you make blue candies at home, you know exactly what goes into it. This is perfect for those who want to avoid artificial additives, preservatives, or allergens. You can choose high-quality ingredients, organic options, or natural sweeteners to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Custom Colors and Flavors: Making your own blue candies gives you the freedom to experiment with different shades of blue and various flavor combinations. From a deep, ocean blue to a light sky blue, you can customize the candy to fit any theme or occasion. Want a hint of lavender mixed with blueberry? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.
Unique Gifts and Party Favors: Homemade blue candy is not just a treat; it’s a gift from the heart. Whether you’re looking for a special party favor, a birthday gift, or just a sweet way to say thank you, DIY blue candy can be packaged beautifully to impress anyone. Personalized touches, like unique shapes or flavors, make these candies extra special.
Fun Family Activity: Making blue candies at home is a fun activity that can bring the whole family together. Kids love helping in the kitchen, especially when it involves vibrant colors and sweet treats. It’s a great way to teach them about cooking, creativity, and even a bit of science.

Easy Recipes for Homemade Blue Candy

Ready to dive into the world of homemade blue candies? Here are a couple of simple yet delicious recipes to get you started:

1. Blue Rock Candy

Blue rock candy is a classic treat that’s both easy to make and visually stunning. It resembles beautiful blue crystals and can be flavored to your liking.

Ingredients:

2 cups of granulated sugar
1 cup of water
Blue food coloring
1/2 teaspoon of your favorite extract (like vanilla, raspberry, or blueberry)

Instructions:

Mix the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
After a minute, remove from heat and add a few drops of blue food coloring and the extract.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it into a jar.
Insert a stick or string into the jar, and over the next few days, watch as sugar crystals form around the stick, creating your very own blue rock candy.

2. Blueberry Candy Drops

These chewy and flavorful candy drops are a delightful way to enjoy the taste of fresh blueberries in candy form.

Ingredients:

1 cup of fresh blueberry juice
2 cups of sugar
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of pectin
Blue food coloring (optional for a more vibrant blue)

Instructions:

Combine the blueberry juice and lemon juice in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil.
Add the sugar and pectin, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Once thickened, add a few drops of blue food coloring if desired.
Spoon small amounts of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to form drops.
Let the candy drops cool and harden before enjoying.

Tips for Using Natural Blue Food Coloring

If you prefer to avoid artificial food dyes, there are natural alternatives that can give your homemade blue candy a vibrant color while adding unique flavors and potential health benefits.

Butterfly Pea Flower: This natural ingredient is a popular choice for its ability to turn foods and beverages a striking blue color. To use it, steep dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water to create a blue dye. The flavor is mild and slightly earthy, which works well in many candy recipes.
Spirulina: Spirulina is a blue-green algae that can be used to color your candy naturally. It’s packed with nutrients and provides a rich blue hue. You can find spirulina powder at health food stores. A small amount goes a long way in coloring your candies without altering the flavor too much.
Red Cabbage Juice: Believe it or not, red cabbage juice can also be used to make blue food coloring. When treated with a bit of baking soda, the red cabbage juice turns blue. This method is a bit more involved but can be a fun science experiment as well as a natural way to color your candy.
Blue Matcha: Derived from butterfly pea flowers, blue matcha offers a stunning blue color and is another natural option for coloring candy. It has a mild flavor and can be added directly to your candy recipes.

Using natural colorings not only makes your blue candies healthier but also adds a layer of creativity to your candy-making process. You’ll enjoy experimenting with different natural ingredients to see how they affect the flavor and color of your homemade blue treats.

5. The Science Behind Blue Candy

Why Blue is a Rare Candy Color

Blue is one of the rarest colors in nature, which is why you don’t see it often in foods—especially in their natural state. This rarity extends to candy as well. The challenge of creating a stable, appealing blue color that can withstand the candy-making process is why blue candies are still somewhat of a novelty compared to other colors.

The Psychology of Blue: Why We Love It

The color blue is often associated with calmness, serenity, and trustworthiness. In the world of candy, these associations make blue treats seem more refreshing and enjoyable. The coolness of blue can also evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of summer days spent with blue popsicles or candy.

Food Coloring and Its Role in Blue Candy

Artificial food coloring has played a major role in the development and popularity of blue candies. Blue food coloring, particularly Blue No. 1, is what gives blue raspberry and other blue candies their vibrant hue. While some people have concerns about artificial colorings, regulatory bodies like the FDA ensure that the colorings used in our food are safe for consumption. That said, there’s been a growing interest in natural food colorings, leading to more options for those who prefer a more natural approach to their sweets.

6. Blue Candy in Pop Culture

Movies and TV Shows

Blue candy has made its mark in popular culture, often appearing in movies and TV shows as a symbol of fun and whimsy. One of the most famous examples is the use of blue meth (actually rock candy) in the hit TV series Breaking Bad. While not a traditional candy, it captured the imagination of audiences and even led to a spike in interest in blue rock candy.

Another example is the appearance of blue cotton candy in carnivals and fairground scenes in films, where it often represents the carefree joys of childhood. The vibrant color makes it a visual treat on screen, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular choice for filmmakers.

How Blue Candy Became a Social Media Star

Social media has had a huge impact on the popularity of blue candies . Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with photos and videos of blue candies , whether it’s being unwrapped, enjoyed, or even made at home. The color blue pops on camera, making it a favorite for content creators who want to catch viewers’ eyes. Viral trends like candy unboxing videos and ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) have also contributed to the rise of blue candy, with its unique textures and sounds adding to the sensory experience.

Blue Candy-Themed Parties and Events

Blue candy isn’t just for snacking—it’s also a popular theme for parties and events. From baby showers to gender reveals, blue candy is often used to add a splash of color to dessert tables. Themed candy buffets featuring blue treats like jelly beans, lollipops, and taffy are a hit at parties, providing both a visual and a gustatory delight. For weddings, blue candies can be used in favor bags or as part of a blue-themed dessert bar, adding a touch of elegance to the celebration.

7. Health Considerations

Is Blue Candy Safe to Eat?

Like all candies, blue candies are perfectly safe to eat when consumed in moderation. The main ingredient to watch out for is sugar, which, if consumed in excess, can lead to various health issues such as tooth decay and weight gain. The blue coloring itself, typically Blue No. 1, has been extensively tested and approved for use by regulatory agencies like the FDA. However, some people prefer to avoid artificial colors due to personal or health reasons, in which case natural blue candies might be a better option.

How to Enjoy Blue Candy in Moderation

The key to enjoying blue candies, like any other treat, is moderation. It’s easy to get carried away when faced with a bowl of your favorite blue treats, but it’s important to remember that candy should be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your diet. One way to keep your consumption in check is to portion out small amounts and savor each piece slowly. Another tip is to balance your candy intake with other healthier snacks, ensuring that you don’t overload on sugar.

Alternatives for Health-Conscious Candy Lovers

If you’re looking to enjoy blue candies without the guilt, there are several healthier alternatives available. Many brands now offer low-sugar or sugar-free blue candies, which can be a great option if you’re watching your sugar intake. Additionally, some companies are experimenting with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to create delicious blue candies without the added sugars. For those concerned about artificial food coloring, natural blue candies made with ingredients like butterfly pea flower or spirulina are becoming more widely available.

8. Where to Buy the Best Blue Candy

My Favorite Online Shops for Blue Candy

When it comes to finding the best blue candies, online shopping is a candy lover’s paradise. Websites like CandyStore.com and Dylan’s Candy Bar offer an extensive selection of blue candies that can be delivered straight to your door. These shops often carry rare and specialty blue candies that you might not find in your local store, making them a great resource for collectors or those looking to try something new.

Specialty Stores that Carry Unique Blue Candies

If you prefer to shop in person, there are plenty of specialty stores that carry unique blue candies. Old-fashioned candy shops, gourmet grocery stores, and even some high-end department stores often have a selection of blue treats that you won’t find in a regular supermarket. Stores like Lolli & Pops and Sugarfina are known for their curated candy selections, including some truly one-of-a-kind blue options.

Finding Blue Candy at Local Markets

Don’t overlook your local markets when searching for blue candies. Farmer’s markets and specialty food fairs sometimes feature artisanal candy makers who create small-batch blue candies using natural ingredients. These candies often have a homemade feel and can make for a special treat. Plus, buying from local vendors supports small businesses and allows you to enjoy fresh, unique products.

9. Pairing Blue Candy with Other Treats

Combining Blue Candy with Drinks

Pairing blue candieswith drinks is a fun way to elevate your snack time. For a refreshing summer treat, try pairing blue raspberry gummies with a cold glass of lemonade. The tartness of the lemonade complements the sweet-tart flavor of the gummies, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. For a more sophisticated pairing, blue chocolate candies can be enjoyed with a glass of red wine, where the richness of the chocolate contrasts beautifully with the fruity notes of the wine.

Blue Candy and Ice Cream: A Match Made in Heaven

If you’ve never tried combining blue candy with ice cream, you’re in for a treat. Crushed blue hard candies make for a fantastic topping on vanilla or coconut ice cream, adding both flavor and a satisfying crunch. Blue gummy candies, on the other hand, can be mixed into a soft-serve ice cream for a chewy surprise in every bite. For an extra-special dessert, consider making a blue candy-infused milkshake by blending blue cotton candy with vanilla ice cream and milk.

Creative Blue Candy Desserts

blue candies can also be used to create stunning desserts that are as fun to look at as they are to eat. For a visually striking cake, decorate it with blue candy shards or crushed blue rock candy. You can also use blue candies to create themed desserts for parties, such as blue candies bark for a winter-themed event. Blue gummies or jellybeans can be incorporated into gelatin desserts, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

10. Gift Ideas with Blue Candy

blue candies isn’t just a treat for satisfying your sweet tooth—it also makes a fantastic gift that can brighten anyone’s day. With its eye-catching color and endless flavor possibilities, blue candy can be the star of thoughtful, creative gifts for various occasions. Whether you’re putting together a gift basket, looking for unique party favors, or wanting to personalize your candy gifts, blue candy offers a range of possibilities that are both delightful and delicious. Let’s explore some exciting ways to use blue candy as the perfect gift.

Creating Blue Candy Gift Baskets

Gift baskets are a timeless way to show someone you care, and using blue candies adds a unique twist that’s both visually stunning and incredibly sweet. Creating a blue candies gift basket is simple and offers endless customization options to suit any occasion.

Steps to Create a Blue Candy Gift Basket:

Select a Basket: Start with a decorative basket that complements the blue theme. Consider using a wicker basket, a blue-colored gift box, or even a reusable tote bag. The container sets the tone for the gift and can be part of the present itself.
Choose Your Blue Candies: Fill the basket with a variety of blue candies options. Include classic choices like blue raspberry lollipops, blue gummy bears, and blue M&Ms. For a more gourmet touch, add blue candy-coated almonds, blue macaroons, or artisanal blue truffles. The mix of textures and flavors will make the gift basket more exciting and appealing.
Add Complementary Items: To enhance the gift, consider adding items that complement the blue candy theme. This could be a small plush toy in a blue color, a blue-themed mug, or even a blue candle. These additions make the gift basket more thoughtful and personalized.
Decorate the Basket: Use blue tissue paper or shredded paper as a filler to cushion the candies and give the basket a polished look. Wrap the entire basket in cellophane and tie it with a blue ribbon to complete the presentation. For an extra touch, attach a personalized handwritten note expressing your well wishes.

Occasions for Blue Candy Gift Baskets:

Birthdays: Celebrate someone’s special day with a basket full of their favorite blue candies.
Holidays: A blue candy gift basket makes a festive present for holidays like Hanukkah or Christmas, adding a touch of color to traditional gift-giving.
Just Because: Sometimes the best gifts are the ones given unexpectedly. A blue candy basket is perfect for cheering someone up or showing appreciation.

Blue Candy for Party Favors

Party favors are a great way to thank guests for attending your event, and blue candies offers a fun and delicious option that’s sure to be a hit. Blue candy can be easily packaged into small bags or boxes, making it a convenient and attractive favor choice.

Tips for Creating Blue Candy Party Favors:

Choose a Variety of Candies: For an appealing mix, include different types of blue candies, such as hard candies, gummies, and chocolate-covered treats. This variety will cater to different tastes and preferences.
Packaging: Use small clear cellophane bags or mini gift boxes to package the candy. These containers allow the vibrant blue color of the candy to shine through. Tie the bags or boxes with blue ribbons or string for a coordinated look.
Customization: Customize the party favors to match the theme of your event. For a baby shower, consider using baby blue candies and labels with the baby’s name or a cute message. For weddings, elegant navy blue candies wrapped in personalized boxes with the couple’s initials adds a sophisticated touch.
Presentation: Arrange the favors in a decorative bowl or tray at the event entrance, or place one at each guest’s table setting. This not only adds to the decor but also ensures that each guest receives a thoughtful thank-you gift.

Occasions for Blue Candy Party Favors:

Weddings: blue candies adds a romantic touch to wedding receptions, particularly if blue is part of the color scheme.
Baby Showers: Blue candy is a classic choice for celebrating the arrival of a baby boy, but it can also be used in gender-neutral or themed showers.
Birthday Parties: From children’s parties to milestone birthdays, blue candies party favors are a crowd-pleaser.

Personalized Blue Candy Gifts

For a truly special and memorable gift, consider personalized blue candy. Personalization adds a unique touch that shows thoughtfulness and care, making the gift even more meaningful.

Ideas for Personalized Blue Candy Gifts:

Custom Candy Wrappers: Order blue candies bars or chocolate pieces with custom wrappers that feature the recipient’s name, a special date, or a personal message. This simple addition transforms an ordinary candy bar into a keepsake.
Engraved Candy Jars: Fill a decorative glass jar with a selection of blue candies and have the jar engraved with the recipient’s name, initials, or a heartfelt message. Once the candy is gone, the jar remains as a beautiful memento.
Photo Candies: Some companies offer the option to print photos directly onto candies. You can choose a favorite photo of the recipient, a special memory, or even a logo for corporate events. Blue photo candies make a striking visual impact and are perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or branded events.
Custom Blue Candy Mixes: Create a custom mix of blue candies by selecting different types of candy and packaging them in a personalized bag or box. Include a label with a fun name for the mix, like “Blue Bliss” or “Ocean Treats,” and add a personal message for a thoughtful touch.

Benefits of Personalized Blue Candy Gifts:

Unique and Memorable: Personalized gifts are always more memorable because they show the effort and thought put into selecting the gift.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, corporate event, or holiday celebration, personalized blue candy can be tailored to fit any occasion.
Versatile: Personalized blue candies gifts can range from simple custom wrappers to elaborate candy displays, making them suitable for all budgets.

11. Storing and Preserving Blue Candy

How to Keep Blue Candy Fresh

To ensure that your blue candies stays fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Most candies should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and moisture can cause candy to melt or become sticky, which can affect both its taste and texture. If you live in a particularly hot or humid climate, consider storing your candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

The Best Containers for Blue Candy

The type of container you use to store your blue candies can also make a big difference in its longevity. Glass jars with airtight seals are a popular choice, as they protect the candy from moisture and air while allowing you to display it in a visually appealing way. For larger quantities of candy, consider using resealable plastic bags or food-grade storage containers, which can help keep your candy fresh for longer.

Tips for Preventing Blue Candy from Melting

One of the biggest challenges of storing blue candies , especially during the summer months, is preventing it from melting. To avoid this, store your candy in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car. If you’re taking blue candies to an outdoor event, pack it in a cooler with ice packs to keep it from melting. Additionally, choosing candies that are less prone to melting, like hard candies or gummies, can help ensure that your treats stay intact.

12. Blue Candy for Special Occasions

Weddings

Blue candies can add a touch of elegance and whimsy to a wedding celebration. Whether it’s used as part of a candy buffet, incorporated into wedding favors, or featured in the dessert table, blue candy is a versatile and stylish choice. Consider offering a selection of blue candies in different shades and flavors, allowing guests to mix and match their favorites. You can also coordinate the candy with the wedding’s color scheme, creating a cohesive and visually stunning display.

Baby Showers and Buffets

Baby showers are another occasion where blue candies shines, especially if the parents-to-be are expecting a boy. A blue candy buffet can be a fun and festive addition to the event, offering guests a sweet treat while also serving as a decorative centerpiece. From blue jellybeans to blue cotton candy, there are plenty of options to choose from, allowing you to create a candy spread that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Holidays

Blue candy isn’t just for summer—it can also be a great addition to holiday celebrations. For winter holidays like Hanukkah or Christmas, blue candies can be used to create themed treats or as part of a festive candy display. Blue candy canes, for example, are a fun twist on the traditional red and white version, while blue chocolate-covered pretzels can add a touch of color to holiday cookie platters.

13. Fun Blue Candy Crafts

Making Blue Candy Jewelry

Blue candy isn’t just for eating—it can also be used to create fun and creative crafts, like candy jewelry. With a few simple supplies, you can string blue candies onto elastic cords or ribbons to create necklaces, bracelets, and even rings. This is a great activity for kids’ parties, allowing them to create their own edible accessories while also enjoying a sweet treat.

Blue Candy Art: Creative Ideas

For those with an artistic flair, blue candies can be used to create stunning edible art. From candy mosaics to candy sculptures, the possibilities are endless. Use blue candies in different shades and shapes to create intricate designs, or combine them with other colored candies to create a more vibrant piece. Whether you’re making candy art for fun or as a gift, it’s a creative way to enjoy your favorite blue treats.

Decorating Cakes with Blue Candy

Blue candy can also be used to add a decorative touch to cakes and other baked goods. Crushed blue candies can be sprinkled over frosted cakes for a pop of color, or whole candies can be used to create patterns or designs. Blue gummies or hard candies can also be used to top cupcakes, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

14. The Future of Blue Candy

Trends to Watch in Blue Candy

The world of blue candy is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging all the time. One trend to watch is the growing interest in natural blue candies, made with ingredients like butterfly pea flower or spirulina. These candies not only offer a more natural alternative to artificial food colorings but also bring new and unique flavors to the table. Another trend is the rise of gourmet blue candies, which offer more sophisticated flavors and artisanal quality.

How Blue Candy is Evolving with New Flavors

Blue candy flavors are also evolving, with candy makers experimenting with new and exciting combinations. While blue raspberry remains a classic, other flavors like blueberry lemonade, blue cream soda, and even blue chili are starting to make their way into the candy world. These new flavors offer a fresh take on blue candies, appealing to those who love trying new and unique treats.

The Role of Technology in Blue Candy Production

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the production of blue candies, from the development of new food colorings to advances in candy-making equipment. For example, 3D printing is being used to create custom candy shapes, allowing for more intricate and personalized designs. Additionally, new techniques in food science are making it possible to create candies with more intense flavors and longer shelf lives.

15. Conclusion

At the end of the day, blue candy is all about fun. It’s a chance to indulge in something a little out of the ordinary, to savor a treat that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. So go ahead, treat yourself to some blue candies, and enjoy the sweet, colorful world that awaits.

16. FAQs

What’s the most popular blue candies?
The most popular blue candies are probably the Blue Raspberry Jolly Rancher, known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
Is blue candy made with artificial coloring?
Most blue candies are made with artificial coloring, typically Blue No. 1. However, there are natural alternatives available.
Can I make blue candies at home without food coloring?
Yes, you can use natural ingredients like butterfly pea flower or spirulina to create blue candy at home without artificial coloring.
How do I store blue candies properly?
Store blue candy in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent melting.
Are there any health concerns with eating blue candies?
Like all candy, blue candy should be eaten in moderation. The artificial coloring used is generally considered safe, but some people prefer to avoid it for personal reasons.

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