Zefir confectionery

Zefir is a traditional Eastern European confectionery similar to marshmallows but made with fruit puree (usually apple), egg whites, and a gelling agent like pectin or agar-agar. Historically, its origins are rooted in the Russian Empire and later popularity blossomed throughout the Soviet Union.

Today, Zefir is produced by a variety of independent manufacturers across Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, and other neighboring countries. There is no single 'ultimate owner' for the concept of Zefir, as it is a generic product type. However, major brands such as Udarnitsa (Charmel) in Russia and Krasny Pischevik in Belarus dominate the market, each operating their own manufacturing facilities within their respective home countries.