DOTS candy is a popular gumdrop brand that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. The candy is known for its colorful and flavorful gummy texture that comes in a variety of fruit flavors. The history of DOTS candy is an interesting one, as it has undergone several changes over the years.
Originally called Mason DOTS, the candy was introduced to the market in 1945. The Mason company sold DOTS to Tootsie Roll in 1972, not long after they trademarked the name. Today, DOTS are produced by Tootsie Roll Industries in their Chicago plant, with over four billion dots produced each year. Despite the changes in ownership, the candy has maintained its popularity and remains a favorite among gumdrop enthusiasts.
The story of DOTS candy is a fascinating one that spans several decades. From its humble beginnings as Mason DOTS to its current status as a top-selling gumdrop brand, the candy has undergone many changes over the years. In the following sections, we will explore the history of DOTS candy, its various flavors, and the reasons behind its enduring appeal.
Origins of DOTS Candy
DOTS Candy is one of the most popular gumdrop candies in the United States, and it has been around for over a century. It was first created in 1890 by the Mason Brothers, who were based in Boston. The original name of the candy was “Mason Dots,” which was later shortened to just “DOTS.”
The candy was initially made in five different flavors: cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and strawberry. The Mason Brothers sold the candy to a company called Warner-Lambert in the 1970s, which was later acquired by Tootsie Roll Industries. Today, Tootsie Roll Industries is the sole manufacturer of DOTS Candy.
DOTS Candy is known for its unique texture, which is chewy and slightly gummy. The candy is made by mixing sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients together to create a syrup. The syrup is then poured into molds and left to cool and harden. Once the candy has hardened, it is coated in a layer of cornstarch to prevent it from sticking together.
Over the years, DOTS Candy has undergone several changes. In the 1940s, the candy was advertised as the first gumdrop candy ever created. In the 2000s, Tootsie Roll Industries introduced new flavors, such as Wild Berry and Sour DOTS. Today, DOTS Candy is still a popular treat among children and adults alike.
Evolution of Flavors
Original Flavors
Dots candy was first introduced in 1945, and the original flavors were cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and strawberry. These flavors have remained a staple of the Dots brand for decades, and continue to be popular with candy lovers of all ages.
Seasonal Variations
In addition to their classic flavors, Dots candy has also released seasonal variations over the years. These include flavors like candy cane, pumpkin, and even a limited edition Valentine’s Day mix. These seasonal flavors are a fun way to mix up the classic Dots experience and add a festive touch to any candy dish.
Limited Edition Releases
Dots candy has also released a number of limited edition flavors over the years. These flavors are typically only available for a short period of time, and can be difficult to find once they sell out. Some popular limited edition flavors have included sour apple, blue raspberry, and watermelon.
Overall, the evolution of Dots candy flavors has allowed the brand to stay relevant and exciting for candy lovers of all ages. From classic flavors to seasonal variations and limited edition releases, there’s always something new to try with Dots candy.
Manufacturing Process
Ingredients Selection
The manufacturing process of DOTS candy begins with the selection of high-quality ingredients. Tootsie Roll Industries, the current owner of the brand, uses only natural and artificial flavors to create the various flavors of DOTS candy. The company also ensures that the ingredients they use are non-GMO and gluten-free, making it a safe choice for people with dietary restrictions.
Production Techniques
Tootsie Roll Industries uses a unique production technique to create DOTS candy. The process involves mixing the ingredients together to create a thick syrup-like mixture. The mixture is then poured into a mold, which is heated to a specific temperature to harden the candy. Once the candy has hardened, it is removed from the mold and coated with a sugar dusting to prevent sticking.
The production process is carefully monitored to ensure that the candy is of high quality and meets the company’s standards. The candy is then packaged and shipped to stores all over the world.
Overall, the manufacturing process of DOTS candy is a carefully crafted process that ensures that the candy is of high quality and meets the expectations of consumers. The use of high-quality ingredients and unique production techniques has made DOTS candy a popular choice for candy lovers all over the world.
Brand Development
Early Marketing Strategies
DOTS candy was first introduced in 1945 by Mason, a company that was later acquired by Tootsie Roll Industries. The original packaging of the candy featured a simple design with the name “Mason’s Dots” and a picture of a polka dot. The candy was marketed as a fun and colorful treat that could be enjoyed by both children and adults.
One of the early marketing strategies for DOTS candy was to promote the various flavors of the candy. The candy was available in a variety of flavors, including cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and grape. The company advertised the candy as a way to “taste the rainbow” and offered a mix of flavors in each box.
Expansion and Ownership Changes
In the 1950s, DOTS candy began to expand its product line by introducing new flavors and packaging options. The candy was also sold in different sizes, including small boxes and larger bags. The company continued to promote the candy as a fun and colorful treat that could be enjoyed by all ages.
Over the years, ownership of DOTS candy changed hands several times. In 1972, Tootsie Roll Industries acquired Mason and began producing DOTS candy under the Tootsie Roll name. Today, DOTS candy is still produced by Tootsie Roll Industries and is available in a variety of flavors and packaging options.
Despite changes in ownership and marketing strategies, DOTS candy has remained a popular treat for generations. Its colorful packaging and variety of flavors continue to attract candy lovers of all ages.
Cultural Impact
Cinema Presence
DOTS candy has been a popular snack for moviegoers for decades. The chewy texture and fruity flavor make it a perfect treat to munch on while watching a film. In fact, DOTS candy has appeared in several movies over the years. One notable example is in the 1990 film “Home Alone,” where Macaulay Culkin’s character Kevin McCallister can be seen eating DOTS while watching a gangster movie.
Pop Culture References
DOTS candy has also made its way into pop culture references. In the popular TV show “The Office,” the character Jim Halpert gives his coworker Dwight Schrute a box of DOTS as a gag gift. The candy has also been mentioned in songs, such as the 2011 hit “It Girl” by Jason Derulo, where he sings, “I’ve been looking for you forever baby we go together like DOTS and glue.”
Overall, DOTS candy has had a significant cultural impact, appearing in movies and TV shows and being referenced in popular music. Its unique texture and fruity flavor make it a beloved snack for many.
Economic History
Sales Milestones
DOTS candy has been a popular treat in the United States since its launch in 1945. According to Mental Floss, the candy was initially marketed as Mason’s Dots, and it quickly became a hit among consumers. DOTS candy has since sold over four billion dots per year, making it one of the most popular candies in the country.
In 2017, Tootsie Roll Industries, the company that produces DOTS candy, reported a net sales of $539.7 million. This was an increase from the previous year’s net sales of $524.6 million. The company’s success can be attributed in part to the popularity of DOTS candy, which continues to be a best-selling item.
Market Challenges
While DOTS candy has enjoyed a great deal of success over the years, it has also faced some market challenges. One of the most significant challenges has been the rise in health consciousness among consumers. As more people become aware of the health risks associated with consuming large amounts of sugar, the demand for sugary treats like DOTS candy has declined.
To combat this trend, Tootsie Roll Industries has introduced new flavors and varieties of DOTS candy. For example, in 2008, the company introduced DOTS Elements, which included flavors like pomegranate, cinnamon, green tea, and wintergreen. However, not all new flavors have been successful, and some have been discontinued, such as the Wild Berry DOTS.
Despite these challenges, DOTS candy remains a beloved treat among many Americans. Its unique texture and fruity flavors continue to attract new fans, and the candy’s economic history is a testament to its enduring popularity.