Double Bubble bubble gum is an iconic brand that has been enjoyed by generations of people. The gum was invented by Walter Diemer, an accountant at Fleer Chewing Gum Company in 1928. Diemer was known for his hobby of creating recipes for chewing gum, and he eventually came up with the recipe for Double Bubble that is still used today.
The gum was originally released in a bright pink color, which has become synonymous with the brand. Double Bubble was distributed to the military during World War II when sugar and latex became scarce due to the war effort. The gum was a hit with soldiers, and it helped to boost morale during a difficult time. Today, Double Bubble is still a popular brand of bubble gum, and it can be found in stores all over the world.
Origins of Double Bubble
Invention and Founders
Double Bubble is one of the most popular bubble gums in the world. It was invented in 1928 by Walter E. Diemer, who was an accountant at Fleer Company. The company founder, Frank Fleer, had been trying to create a new kind of chewing gum for years. He wanted to create a gum that could blow bubbles, but he never succeeded.
Walter Diemer was experimenting with different gum recipes when he stumbled upon the perfect formula. He found that by adding a little more corn syrup and sugar to the gum base, he could create a gum that was stretchy and could be blown into bubbles. He presented his new gum to his coworkers, who were amazed at how well it worked.
Early Recipes and Ingredients
The original recipe for Double Bubble was a closely guarded secret, but we do know that it contained corn syrup, sugar, and gum base. The gum base was made from a mixture of natural and synthetic materials, including chicle, a natural latex harvested from the sapodilla tree, and synthetic rubber.
Over the years, the recipe for Double Bubble has changed several times. In the 1940s, the company started adding flavors to the gum, including strawberry, grape, and apple. In the 1950s, they introduced the iconic Pud and his pals as the mascots for the gum. The original comic strip that came with the gum was called the Fleer Funnies, but it was later replaced by new comic strips featuring Pud and his friends.
Today, Double Bubble is still one of the most popular bubble gums in the world. It’s loved by kids and adults alike for its sweet flavor and ability to blow big bubbles.
Brand Evolution
Ownership Changes
Double Bubble bubble gum has undergone several changes in ownership throughout its history. In 1959, the Fleer Corporation sold the brand to Nabisco, which then sold it to Warner-Lambert in 1981. In 2003, Tootsie Roll Industries acquired the rights to Double Bubble, and it remains under their ownership to this day. Despite the changes in ownership, the brand has remained popular among consumers.
Rebranding Efforts
Over the years, Double Bubble has undergone several rebranding efforts to keep up with changing consumer preferences. In the 1960s, the original character Pud was slimmed down to appeal to a more health-conscious audience. In recent years, the brand has introduced new flavors and packaging to attract younger consumers. Despite these changes, the iconic pink color and fruit flavor have remained a constant in the brand’s identity.
To this day, Double Bubble bubble gum remains a beloved classic among gum enthusiasts of all ages. Its longevity can be attributed to its ability to adapt to changing trends while still staying true to its roots. Whether blowing bubbles or just enjoying the fruity flavor, Double Bubble is sure to remain a staple in the world of gum for years to come.
Cultural Impact
Marketing Milestones
Dubble Bubble bubble gum has had a significant impact on the marketing industry. The brand was the first to introduce bubble gum to the masses, and it quickly became one of the most popular gum brands. In 1929, the company started printing comics on the wrappers, which became a huge hit. The comics featured characters like Dub and Bub, who later became the brand’s mascots. The company also introduced trading cards, which were included in the gum packs, and they became a huge hit among children.
In the 1950s, the company introduced a new marketing strategy by partnering with Major League Baseball. The gum was sold at baseball games, and the players were seen chewing it during the games. This partnership helped the brand gain more visibility and popularity.
In Pop Culture
Dubble Bubble bubble gum has also had a significant impact on pop culture. The brand has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including “The Sandlot” and “Stranger Things.” The gum’s iconic pink color and unique flavor have become synonymous with bubble gum, and it has become a staple in the world of candy.
The brand’s mascots, Dub and Bub, have also become a part of pop culture. They have appeared in several commercials and advertisements, and their images have been used on various merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, and keychains.
Overall, Dubble Bubble bubble gum has had a significant cultural impact, and it continues to be a popular brand among children and adults alike. Its unique flavor and iconic pink color have made it a staple in the world of candy, and its marketing strategies have set a precedent for other brands to follow.
Product Variations
Flavor Expansions
Dubble Bubble gum has a long history of flavor innovation. In 1951, the company resumed production after a hiatus during World War II, and began experimenting with new flavors. Over time, they added flavors such as grape, watermelon, and blue raspberry to their lineup. Today, Dubble Bubble offers a wide variety of flavors, including classic fruit flavors and unique options like cotton candy and sour apple.
Packaging Innovations
In addition to expanding their flavor offerings, Dubble Bubble has also made significant packaging innovations over the years. In 1957, they introduced the first 6-pack of gum, making it easier for consumers to purchase and share their favorite bubble gum. They also introduced ball gum, which was a round, bite-sized version of their classic gum. More recently, Dubble Bubble has introduced resealable pouches, making it easier for consumers to keep their gum fresh and share it with others.
Overall, Dubble Bubble has a rich history of product innovation, with a focus on expanding their flavor offerings and making it easier for consumers to enjoy their gum. Whether you prefer classic fruit flavors or unique options like cotton candy, there’s a Dubble Bubble gum flavor for everyone.
Manufacturing Process
Production Techniques
Dubble Bubble bubble gum is produced using a combination of sugar, corn syrup, and gum base. The gum base is made up of a mixture of elastomers, resins, fats, and waxes. The ingredients are mixed together in a large kettle and heated to a temperature of around 240°F. The mixture is then poured into a rolling machine where it is flattened and cut into the desired shape.
The gum is then coated with a layer of sugar and flavorings. The sugar coating serves to protect the gum from moisture and also gives it a sweet taste. The flavorings used in Dubble Bubble gum are varied and include fruit flavors such as cherry, grape, and watermelon, as well as more unique flavors such as cotton candy and sour apple.
Quality Control
Quality control is an important part of the manufacturing process for Dubble Bubble bubble gum. The gum is subjected to rigorous testing throughout the production process to ensure that it meets the highest standards of quality. The gum is tested for flavor, texture, and consistency, as well as for its ability to form bubbles.
In addition, the manufacturing process is carefully monitored to ensure that the gum is produced in a clean and hygienic environment. The equipment used in the production process is regularly cleaned and sanitized to prevent contamination. The gum is also packaged in airtight containers to ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.
Global Presence
Double Bubble Bubble Gum has been a popular chewing gum brand for many decades and has expanded its reach worldwide. The gum is now available in over 60 countries, making it a global brand that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Expansion into New Markets
In the 1950s, Double Bubble Bubble Gum expanded its distribution to new markets, including Europe, Asia, and South America. This expansion allowed the brand to reach new customers and establish a presence in new regions.
Today, the company continues to expand its reach globally, with a focus on emerging markets where there is a growing demand for chewing gum. Double Bubble Bubble Gum is now available in many countries, including China, India, and Brazil.
International Varieties
Double Bubble Bubble Gum is available in a variety of flavors and varieties, depending on the region. In the United States, the classic pink bubble gum flavor is the most popular, while in other countries, different flavors are more popular.
For example, in Japan, Double Bubble Bubble Gum is available in flavors such as grape, melon, and peach. In Europe, the gum is available in a variety of fruit flavors, including apple, strawberry, and orange.
Overall, Double Bubble Bubble Gum’s global presence has allowed the brand to establish itself as a popular chewing gum brand worldwide. With a wide range of flavors and varieties available, the gum continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages in many different countries.