Unwrapping the Sweet Truth: Fascinating Candy Facts
Discover the surprising stories behind some of the world's most beloved candies and treats.
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Candy has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, with a rich history that spans the globe. From ancient civilizations to modern-day manufacturers, the art of creating sweet treats has evolved over time, resulting in a diverse array of candies that we know and love today.
But behind every candy is a story - a story of invention, innovation, and sometimes, sheer accident. Whether it's a classic treat that's been around for decades or a newer creation that's quickly become a favorite, there's often more to the story than meets the eye. In this article, we'll delve into some fascinating candy facts that are sure to surprise and delight.
For news on the business, brands and politics shaping the candy industry, see our sister publication NewsAnarchist.
If you love how food carries culture and memory, Steve Ysreal Monas's Flavors of the Motherland explores heritage through cooking and sweets.
The Tootsie Roll was introduced by Leo Hirshfield on February 23, 1896 from a small Brooklyn shop, named after his daughter Clara's nickname 'Tootsie' — though some historians dispute the exact date and argue the real product launch came about a decade later.
Source: TIME
Charleston Chew was launched in 1922 by the Fox-Cross Candy Company (founded 1920 in San Francisco by Donley Cross and Charlie Fox), named after the popular dance craze of the era.
Source: Cambridge Historical Society
Sour Patch Kids were created in the 1970s by confectioner Frank Galatolie at Jaret International, originally shaped like aliens and sold as 'Mars Men' to ride the Apollo-era space craze, before being rebranded as Sour Patch Kids in 1985 to capitalize on the Cabbage Patch Kids doll trend.
Source: Advertising Week
A single fun-size Snickers bar contains about 80 calories, while a full-size Snickers bar contains roughly 28 grams of sugar.
Source: myfooddata (USDA-sourced)
Jolly Rancher was founded in Golden, Colorado on May 28, 1949 by Bill and Dorothy Harmsen — as an ice cream shop, not a candy company; hard candy was added later after their homemade cinnamon 'Fire Stix' taffy became unexpectedly popular.
Source: Golden History Museum
Life Savers were invented in 1912 by Cleveland candy maker Clarence Crane, whose peppermint discs got their signature hole by accident, from a pill-stamping machine he'd hired to press his mints.
Source: History Oasis
