The ZERO candy bar has been a beloved treat for over 100 years. The candy bar was first introduced in 1920 by the Hollywood Brands Company, originally called the Double Zero Bar. The candy bar is composed of a combination of caramel, peanut and almond nougat covered with a layer of white chocolate fudge, and its outwardly white color has become its trademark.
Over the years, the ZERO candy bar has undergone a few changes. In 1934, the Double Zero Bar was renamed the ZERO Bar. In 1996, Hollywood Brands Company was acquired by Hershey Foods Corporation, and the ZERO candy bar is still produced today. Despite these changes, the candy bar has maintained its unique flavor and texture, making it a popular choice for candy lovers everywhere.
Origins of ZERO Candy Bar
The ZERO Candy Bar has been a favorite treat for many people since its introduction in 1920. The bar was created by the Hollywood Brands Company, which was based in Minnesota. Originally marketed as the “Double Zero Bar,” it was renamed to simply “ZERO” in 1934.
The candy bar is made up of a combination of caramel, peanut, and almond nougat, covered with a layer of white chocolate fudge. Its outwardly white color, which is an unusual color for a candy bar, has become its trademark.
The original name of the bar was intended to communicate that it was cool even at low temperatures, but it may also have referred to the stark white exterior of the bar that reminded people of snow. The bar was distributed in the summer as fudge has a much higher melting point than milk chocolate, and retailers stored this in their refrigerators.
Over the years, the ZERO Candy Bar has undergone many transformations, surviving multiple buyouts, first by Consolidated Foods Corporation in 1967, and then Huhtamaki Oy in 1988. Despite these changes, the candy bar remains a classic among candy bars and continues to be enjoyed by many people today.
Development and Naming
The Zero Candy Bar has a rich history that dates back to 1920 when it was first introduced by the Hollywood Brands candy company of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Originally named the Double Zero Bar, it was renamed to simply Zero in 1934. The candy bar was created by combining layers of caramel, peanuts, and almond nougat, and then covering it with white chocolate.
The name “Double Zero” was initially intended to suggest that the Zero bar was “cool,” as in low in temperature. Over the years, the Zero bar underwent several transformations, both big and small, and survived multiple buyouts. Consolidated Foods Corporation acquired Hollywood Brands in 1967, and Huhtamaki Oy bought the company in 1988.
Today, the Hershey Company owns the Zero candy bar and continues to produce it. Despite the changes in ownership and recipe modifications, the Zero bar remains a popular candy treat. Its unique combination of flavors and textures has made it a favorite among candy lovers for over a century.
Early Marketing and Distribution
The Zero candy bar was first introduced in 1920 by the Hollywood Brands Company. At that time, it was called the Double Zero Bar and was manufactured in a factory located in Centralia, Illinois. The candy bar was composed of a combination of caramel, peanut, and almond nougat covered with a layer of white chocolate fudge. Its outwardly white color, which was an unusual color for a candy bar, has become its trademark.
The original marketing of the Zero Bar was done in Illinois where the first factory was located. The candy bar gained popularity quickly and became a favorite among candy lovers. In 1967, Hollywood Brands was sold to Consolidated Foods Corporation, which later became Sara Lee. The Zero Bar brand again changed hands in 1988 when Huhtamaki Oyj bought the company and renamed it Leaf Inc.
Throughout its history, the Zero candy bar has been marketed and distributed by various companies. In 1996, The Hershey Company acquired the manufacturing and distribution rights for the candy bar. To this day, Zero Candy Bars are still made and sold by Hershey’s. The candy bar has maintained its popularity and is still enjoyed by many candy lovers around the world.
Evolution of the Recipe
Over the years, the recipe for the Zero candy bar has undergone several changes. The original recipe included almonds, peanuts, and caramel nougat covered with white fudge. Today, the recipe remains largely the same, but some ingredients have been added or removed to improve the taste and texture of the candy.
In the 1930s, the Hollywood Candy Company introduced the Zero bar, and it quickly became a favorite among candy lovers. The original recipe included almonds and peanuts, which gave the candy a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. The caramel nougat added a chewy and sweet element to the candy, while the white fudge coating gave it a unique and distinctive appearance.
Over the years, the recipe for the Zero bar has been modified to keep up with changing tastes and preferences. For example, in the 1960s, the candy underwent a major change when it was acquired by the Consolidated Foods Corporation. The new owners added coconut to the recipe, which gave the candy a tropical and sweet flavor.
In the 1980s, the candy was acquired by Huhtamaki Oy, and the recipe was once again modified. This time, the company removed the coconut and added more caramel nougat to the candy. The new recipe was well-received by consumers, and it remains largely the same today.
Overall, the evolution of the recipe for the Zero candy bar reflects changing tastes and preferences over the years. Despite these changes, the candy remains a favorite among candy lovers, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Packaging Changes Over Time
The packaging of the Zero candy bar has undergone several changes over time. In the early days, candy was sold in bulk, and there was little need for individual packaging. However, as the candy industry grew, the need for packaging became more apparent.
The original packaging of the Zero candy bar was a simple wax paper wrapper with the name of the candy printed on it. This packaging was simple and effective, but it did not provide much protection for the candy.
In the 1950s, Hollywood Brands Company introduced a new packaging design for the Zero candy bar. The candy was now wrapped in a colorful foil wrapper that featured the Zero logo and a picture of the candy. This new packaging was more eye-catching and helped to protect the candy from damage.
In the 1980s, the packaging of the Zero candy bar underwent another change. The foil wrapper was replaced with a plastic wrapper that featured the Zero logo and a picture of the candy. This new packaging was more durable and helped to keep the candy fresh for longer.
Today, the Zero candy bar is packaged in a plastic wrapper that features the Hershey’s logo and a picture of the candy. The packaging is designed to protect the candy from damage and keep it fresh for longer. Overall, the packaging of the Zero candy bar has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the candy industry.
Ownership and Manufacturer History
Hollywood Brands
The ZERO Candy Bar was first introduced in 1920 by the Hollywood Brands candy company, which was based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Originally, it was known as the Double Zero Bar and was manufactured at the company’s factory in Centralia, Illinois. The candy bar was made of caramel, peanuts, almonds, and nougat, and was covered in a layer of white chocolate. In 1934, the candy bar was renamed “Zero”. It is said that the name “double” zero was used to suggest that the candy bar was “cool”, as in low in temperature.
Leaf International
Over the years, the ZERO Candy Bar changed hands several times. In the 1960s, Hollywood Brands was acquired by Consolidated Foods Corporation, which later became Sara Lee Corporation. In 1983, the ZERO Candy Bar was sold to Leaf International, a Dutch confectionery company. Leaf International continued to manufacture the candy bar until it was acquired by Hershey Company in 1996.
Hershey Company
Today, the ZERO Candy Bar is produced by Hershey Company, which is one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. Hershey Company is based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and produces a wide range of chocolate products, including Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and Kit Kat bars. The ZERO Candy Bar remains a popular candy bar, known for its unique combination of flavors and textures.
Cultural Impact
The ZERO candy bar has been a popular treat for over 90 years. It has become a cultural icon in the United States, and has been referenced in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and books.
One of the most famous references to the ZERO candy bar was in the movie “Holes,” where one of the characters, Zero, is named after the candy bar. This reference helped to increase the popularity of the candy bar among children and young adults.
In addition to being referenced in popular media, the ZERO candy bar has also been used in fundraising efforts by various organizations. For example, the candy bar has been sold to raise money for schools, sports teams, and other charitable causes.
Overall, the ZERO candy bar has had a significant cultural impact and has become a beloved treat for many people in the United States. Its unique combination of ingredients and long history have helped to make it a staple in the candy industry.
Variations and Flavors
The Zero Candy Bar has undergone several transformations over the years, but the original recipe remains a classic. The candy bar consists of a caramel nougat center with almonds and peanuts, covered in a white fudge coating.
While the original recipe remains popular, there have been some variations and flavors introduced over the years. In the 1970s, a peanut butter version of the Zero Bar was introduced, which replaced the almonds with peanut butter. This variation was short-lived and was eventually discontinued.
In recent years, Hershey’s has introduced a limited edition dark chocolate version of the Zero Bar, which features a dark chocolate coating instead of the traditional white fudge. This variation has been well-received by fans of the candy bar, but it is only available for a limited time.
Overall, the Zero Candy Bar has remained true to its original recipe, with only a few variations introduced over the years. Fans of the candy bar appreciate its simplicity and classic taste, making it a favorite among candy lovers.
Global Availability and Expansion
The Zero candy bar, which was initially manufactured in the United States, has become a popular treat worldwide. The Hershey Company, which acquired the brand in 1996, has ensured that the candy bar is widely distributed globally. Today, the Zero candy bar is available in most countries where Hershey’s products are sold.
Over the years, the Zero candy bar has undergone several transformations and rebranding, including a name change from Double Zero to Zero in 1934. The candy bar has also undergone packaging changes, with the most recent being the modernized blue and white wrapper that was introduced in the 2000s.
The Hershey Company has also expanded the Zero candy bar line to include other products, such as the Zero King Size bar and the Zero Big Bar. These products have become popular among candy lovers who enjoy the unique taste of the Zero candy bar. Overall, the Zero candy bar has maintained its popularity among candy lovers worldwide and remains a classic candy bar with a rich history spanning over 100 years.
Challenges and Controversies
The Zero candy bar has been around for over a century and has faced its fair share of challenges and controversies. One of the most significant challenges was the change in ownership. The Hollywood Brands Company, which introduced the Double Zero Bar in 1920, was acquired by Leaf Brands in 1955. Later, in 1996, Hershey Foods Corporation took over the production of the Zero candy bar.
Another controversy that the Zero candy bar faced was the change in its recipe. In the 1970s, the recipe was changed, and the bar was made smaller. Fans of the original Zero candy bar were upset with the change and voiced their concerns. However, the recipe was eventually changed back to the original, and the bar’s size was increased.
In recent years, the Zero candy bar has faced criticism for its high sugar content. Some health experts have warned against consuming too many candy bars, including the Zero candy bar, due to the negative impact on one’s health. However, the candy bar remains a popular treat among candy lovers.
Despite the challenges and controversies, the Zero candy bar has managed to maintain its popularity over the years. Its unique combination of caramel, peanut, and almond nougat covered in white chocolate has continued to delight candy lovers for generations.
Collaborations and Promotions
Over the years, the ZERO candy bar has collaborated with various brands and companies to promote its product. One such collaboration was with the famous American rock band, Kiss. In the 1980s, the ZERO candy bar featured the band members on its wrapper and ran a promotion where fans could win tickets to their concerts.
In addition to music, ZERO candy bars have also been featured in movies and TV shows. In the 1990s, the candy bar was featured in the hit TV show “Seinfeld” and was even referenced in the show’s dialogue. This exposure helped to increase the popularity of the candy bar.
The ZERO candy bar has also been involved in various sports promotions. In the 1980s, the candy bar sponsored the NASCAR driver, Benny Parsons, and was featured on his race car. The candy bar has also been involved in promotions with other sports teams and events, including the Minnesota Twins baseball team.
Overall, the ZERO candy bar has been involved in various collaborations and promotions throughout its history, helping to increase its popularity and reach a wider audience.
The ZERO Candy Bar Today
The ZERO Candy Bar is still being produced and distributed by Hershey’s, who acquired the brand in 1996. The candy bar’s combination of caramel, peanut and almond nougat covered with a layer of white chocolate fudge makes it a unique and delicious treat that is enjoyed by many.
Despite being around for over a century, the ZERO Candy Bar has managed to remain relevant and popular. It is widely available in stores across the United States and can also be purchased online.
In recent years, Hershey’s has also introduced new variations of the ZERO Candy Bar, such as the ZERO King Size and the ZERO White Fudge. These variations offer consumers more options and flavors to choose from.
Overall, the ZERO Candy Bar’s longevity and continued popularity are a testament to its unique taste and enduring appeal.