Ah, conversation hearts - the iconic candy of Valentine's Day! Those pastel-hued morsels, imprinted with sweet nothings and cheeky puns, have been whispering declarations of love for over a century. But beyond their sugary exterior lies a trove of interesting facts and surprising tales.Check Now
The History of a Heartbeat:
- Birth of a Candy Cupid: It all began in 1866 when Oliver Chase, a Boston pharmacist, had the brilliant idea of printing messages on tiny lozenges. Initially, he used mottoes and proverbs, but by 1901, the focus shifted to the romantic phrases we know and love.
- A Sweet Evolution: Over the years, the sayings have continued to evolve, reflecting societal changes and pop culture trends. From classic messages like "Be Mine" and "Kiss Me" to modern quips like "Bae" and "Netflix & Chill," candy hearts have kept pace with the times.
- From Necco to Spangler: While originally produced by the New England Confectionery Company (Necco), the rights to Sweethearts were acquired by Spangler Candy Company in 2018. Thankfully, the beloved candy hearts haven't skipped a beat, continuing to charm us with their sugary sentiments.
Beyond the Box:
- Flavors galore: While classic strawberry and cherry still reign supreme, there's a rainbow of flavors hiding within those pastel shells. Grape, orange, lime, and even watermelon - there's a candy heart for every taste bud.
- Shape-shifting sweetness: Beyond the iconic hearts, conversation candies have ventured into other shapes. Stars, flowers, and even emojis have graced the candy landscape, offering even more ways to send a sweet message.
- Get creative: Candy hearts are more than just a sugary snack. They're blank canvases for DIY projects. String them into garlands, create mosaics, or even spell out personalized messages - the possibilities are endless.
A Bite of Nostalgia:
Whether you're a seasoned valentine or a newfound admirer of these sugary tokens, candy hearts evoke a sense of nostalgia. They remind us of childhood crushes, whispered secrets, and the simple joy of expressing affection through a tiny, edible message.
So, this Valentine's Day, don't underestimate the power of a candy heart. Pop one in your mouth, share a laugh with your sweetheart, and savor the sweetness of tradition and a sprinkle of love. And who knows, perhaps you'll discover a new favorite flavor or even craft a one-of-a-kind candy heart masterpiece!