Maker Of Candy Corn And Conversation Hearts
Every year, millions of Americans enjoy indulging in sweet treats during Halloween and Valentine's Day. Two iconic candies that are often associated with these holidays are candy corn and conversation hearts. But have you ever wondered about the people behind these beloved confections? Let's take a closer look at the maker of candy corn and conversation hearts.
A Brief History of Candy Corn
Candy corn was first created in the late 1800s by George Renninger, a candy maker from Philadelphia. It was originally called "chicken feed" because of its resemblance to the small grains that farmers would feed their poultry. The tri-colored candy quickly became popular among Americans, especially during Halloween.
Today, candy corn is made by several different companies, but one of the most well-known is the Jelly Belly Candy Company. Jelly Belly has been making candy corn since the 1890s and is now the largest producer of the candy in the world.
The Origins of Conversation Hearts
Conversation hearts, also known as "Sweethearts," were first created in 1866 by the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO). They were originally larger and had longer sayings on them, but over time, the size was reduced and the sayings were shortened to the two-word messages that we know today.
NECCO went bankrupt in 2018, but not before selling the conversation hearts brand to the Spangler Candy Company. Today, Spangler is the sole producer of conversation hearts in the United States.
The Maker of Candy Corn and Conversation Hearts Today
The Jelly Belly Candy Company continues to make candy corn using the original recipe from the 1800s. They also produce other versions of the candy, including chocolate candy corn and candy corn with nuts.
Spangler Candy Company has kept the tradition of conversation hearts alive, but has also introduced new flavors and packaging. In addition to the classic pastel-colored hearts, they now offer sour and tangy varieties, as well as heart-shaped lollipops and gummies.
The Future of These Iconic Candies
Despite their popularity, candy corn and conversation hearts have faced some challenges in recent years. Many people have criticized the taste of candy corn, and the original NECCO factory, which produced conversation hearts for over 100 years, has closed its doors.
However, both candies still sell well during their respective holidays, and the makers of candy corn and conversation hearts continue to innovate and create new products. Whether you love them or hate them, these candies are sure to remain a staple of American holidays for many years to come.
Conclusion
From their humble beginnings in the late 1800s to the iconic treats that we know today, candy corn and conversation hearts have a rich history and a devoted following. Although their makers have faced challenges over the years, these candies remain beloved by millions of Americans. So the next time you indulge in a handful of candy corn or a box of conversation hearts, take a moment to appreciate the sweet story behind these tasty treats.