Introduction
Candy corn is one of the most iconic symbols of the autumn season and a beloved treat around Halloween. But what is candy corn and when was it invented? To answer these questions, let’s take a look at the sweet history behind this festive treat.
A Historical Look at the Invention of Candy Corn
Candy corn is a type of confectionery made of sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients that give it a distinctive flavor and texture. It’s usually formed into small, triangular kernels and often found in colors of yellow, orange, and white. It’s also known as “mellowcreme” or “Indian corn” because of its resemblance to corn on the cob.
Candy corn has been around since the late 19th century, but its exact origin is still debated. According to some historians, the treat was first created by George Renninger of the Wunderle Candy Company in Philadelphia. Others believe the treat was invented by Charles Miller of the Goelitz Confectionery Company (now known as Jelly Belly) in Illinois. However, there is no definitive answer as to who first created candy corn.
Timeline of the Invention of Candy Corn
The earliest mention of candy corn appears in a patent filed by George Renninger in 1898. According to the patent, his invention was a “confectionery product composed of sugar and corn syrup with coloring added.” The patent was for a process of making a “corn-shaped” candy. This patent is believed to be the first reference to candy corn.
In 1900, the Goelitz Confectionery Company began producing a similar product called “Chicken Feed.” This product was made from sugar, corn syrup, and marshmallow, and it was shaped like kernels of corn. It was colored yellow, orange, and white, just like traditional candy corn. It was marketed as a treat for chickens and was sold in boxes labeled “For Chickens Only.”
In the 1920s, the Goelitz Confectionery Company changed the name of “Chicken Feed” to “Candy Corn” and began marketing it as a treat for humans. They also changed the packaging, replacing the “For Chickens Only” label with one that said “For People, Too!” Since then, candy corn has become a popular Halloween treat.
Uncovering the Mystery Behind the Invention of Candy Corn
Although the exact origin of candy corn is still debated, there are some common myths about the invention of the treat that have been debunked. For example, many people believe that the treat was invented by an unknown farmer, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Additionally, some people believe that candy corn was invented by the National Confectioners Association, but this is also false.
Another myth is that candy corn was invented as a way to use up excess sugar supplies from the sugar beet industry. This myth is also untrue; sugar beets were not widely used until the 1930s, while candy corn was invented in the late 19th century.
Despite all the myths and unanswered questions, one thing is certain: candy corn has been delighting taste buds since the late 19th century. Today, it’s one of the most popular treats to enjoy during the autumn season, especially around Halloween.
Conclusion
Candy corn is a beloved treat that has been around since the late 19th century. Although its exact origin is still debated, we know that it was first patented by George Renninger in 1898 and later popularized by the Goelitz Confectionery Company in the 1920s. Despite several myths surrounding its invention, candy corn remains a popular treat for the autumn season.
Today, candy corn is a staple of Halloween celebrations around the world. Whether you enjoy it plain or in creative recipes, there’s no denying that candy corn is a delicious treat that has stood the test of time.
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