Stuff You Should Know – Short Stuff: Candy Corn

Intro

Candy corn is a highly debated holiday candy that has been around for over 150 years. In this episode of “Short Stuff,” the hosts explore the origins, production process, and cultural significance of candy corn. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that candy corn is an iconic Halloween treat.

Main Takeaways

History and Origins

• Candy corn is at least 150 years old and originated from mellow cream candies.
• The inventor of candy corn is unknown, but it is believed to have come out in the 1880s.
• Candy corn was not originally associated with Halloween and was available year-round.
• Candy corn was meant to be a novelty candy, like candy cigarettes or little candy people.
• Candy corn was originally meant to look like chicken feet, as corn was considered a garbage starch for chickens.

Production Process

• Candy corn is made from sugar, corn syrup, and marshmallow, giving it a unique texture.
• Candy corn is made by boiling sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients in kettles, then adding marshmallow and fondant before pouring into cornstarch molds.
• The process of pouring candy corn slurry into molds was done by stringers who walked backwards down a line, and this tradition is still kept in modern times.
• According to the National Confectioners Association, 35 million pounds of candy corn are produced annually, which amounts to 9 billion pieces.

Cultural Significance and Popularity

• Candy corn is a Halloween staple and has inspired various flavors and products.
• By the mid-20th century, candy corn became associated with Halloween.
• Candy corn is popular among Americans, with 95% of people who shopped for Halloween stuff buying it in 2019.
• Nostalgia is one of the main reasons why people like candy corn, as it reminds them of their childhood.
• Sweetness is another reason why people like candy corn, while others dislike it because it’s too sweet.

Summary

Origins and Production

Candy corn has a rich history dating back to the 1880s when it was created as a novelty candy resembling chicken feet. Made from sugar, corn syrup, and marshmallow, candy corn undergoes a unique production process involving boiling and molding. The tradition of stringers walking backwards while pouring the candy corn slurry into molds continues to this day. With 35 million pounds produced annually, candy corn has become an iconic Halloween treat.

Cultural Significance and Popularity

While candy corn was initially available year-round and not associated with Halloween, it eventually became synonymous with the holiday. Its popularity among Americans remains strong, with 95% of Halloween shoppers purchasing it in 2019. Nostalgia plays a significant role in people’s love for candy corn, evoking memories of childhood. However, the candy’s sweetness can be polarizing, with some finding it too sugary. Despite the divided opinions, candy corn continues to be a beloved treat during the Halloween season.

Conclusion

Candy corn’s enduring presence in the world of confectionery is a testament to its unique history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a fan or not, candy corn’s distinct appearance and nostalgic appeal make it an unmistakable symbol of Halloween. So, the next time you see a bowl of candy corn, take a moment to appreciate the candy’s enduring legacy and the joy it brings to many during the spooky season.