The 1950s was an era of rock and roll, poodle skirts, and of course, candy. It was a time when candy was not just a sweet treat, but a symbol of the booming economy and the post-war optimism. People enjoyed a wide variety of candies during this time, from classic chocolate bars to unique and innovative treats that were introduced during the decade.
One of the most popular candies of the 1950s was the Pixy Stix. Invented in 1952, Pixy Stix was a unique and flavorsome powdered candy inside of a straw-like shape. It was originally made by Sunline Incorporated and started out as a mix for drinks before becoming a popular candy. Another popular candy from the 1950s was Bubble Gum Cigarettes, which allowed kids to blow clouds of sugar and reminisce about their childhood.
Candy Bars of the 1950s
The 1950s was a decade of innovation and change in the candy industry. Some of the most iconic candy bars that are still popular today were first introduced during this time. Here are some of the most popular candy bars of the 1950s:
Milk Chocolate Innovations
One of the most popular candy bars of the 1950s was the Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar. This classic candy bar was first introduced in 1900, but it gained even more popularity in the 1950s. The Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar was a simple, yet delicious candy bar that was made with high-quality milk chocolate.
Nougat and Caramel Delights
The 1950s was also the decade of nougat and caramel candy bars. One of the most popular candy bars of this type was the Milky Way. This candy bar was first introduced in 1923, but it gained even more popularity in the 1950s. The Milky Way candy bar was made with nougat, caramel, and milk chocolate.
Another popular nougat and caramel candy bar of the 1950s was the Snickers. This candy bar was first introduced in 1930, but it gained even more popularity in the 1950s. The Snickers candy bar was made with nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate.
Nutty Sensations
The 1950s was also the decade of nutty candy bars. One of the most popular nutty candy bars of this time was the Baby Ruth. This candy bar was first introduced in 1921, but it gained even more popularity in the 1950s. The Baby Ruth candy bar was made with peanuts, caramel, and nougat, all covered in milk chocolate.
Another popular nutty candy bar of the 1950s was the PayDay. This candy bar was first introduced in 1932, but it gained even more popularity in the 1950s. The PayDay candy bar was made with peanuts and caramel. It was a simple candy bar, but it was loved by many for its nutty and chewy texture.
In conclusion, the 1950s was a decade of innovation and change in the candy industry. Some of the most iconic candy bars that are still popular today were first introduced during this time. The Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar, Milky Way, Snickers, Baby Ruth, and PayDay are just a few examples of the delicious candy bars that were introduced during this time.
Chewy Sweets and Taffy
When it comes to chewy sweets and taffy, the 1950s had plenty of options to choose from. These treats were popular among both kids and adults, and they remain a nostalgic favorite to this day.
Fruit-Flavored Chews
One of the most popular fruit-flavored chews from the 1950s was Bit-O-Honey. This candy had a unique blend of honey and almond flavors that made it stand out from other chews. Another popular option was Chuckles, which offered a variety of fruit flavors in one package. Kids loved the bright colors and unique shapes of these candies.
Saltwater Taffy Varieties
Saltwater taffy was another popular candy from the 1950s. This chewy treat originated in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and quickly became a national sensation. Some of the most popular saltwater taffy flavors from the 1950s included vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Many candy companies also offered assorted packs that included a variety of flavors.
Overall, chewy sweets and taffy were a staple of the 1950s candy scene. With their unique flavors and fun shapes, these candies continue to be a beloved treat for people of all ages.
Hard Candies and Lollipops
Classic Peppermints
One of the most popular hard candies of the 1950s was the classic peppermint. These refreshing treats were a staple in candy dishes and on the go. They were perfect for freshening breath and satisfying a sweet tooth. Peppermints were often sold in clear plastic bags or tins, making them easy to store and transport.
Assorted Fruit Lollies
Assorted fruit lollies were another popular candy in the 1950s. These lollipops came in a variety of flavors, including cherry, grape, orange, and lemon. They were often sold in large bags or individually wrapped, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go. Some popular brands of assorted fruit lollies in the 1950s included Dum Dums, Chupa Chups, and Tootsie Pops.
Overall, hard candies and lollipops were a beloved treat in the 1950s. They were perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and were often enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether it was classic peppermints or assorted fruit lollies, these candies continue to be enjoyed today and are a reminder of the sweet nostalgia of the 1950s.
Bubble Gum and Gumballs
Bubble gum and gumballs were a popular treat in the 1950s. Bubble gum was invented in 1928 by Walter E. Diemer, an accountant at Fleer Gum Company. It was initially pink in color, and its popularity soared in the 1950s. The classic bubble gum flavor is sweet and fruity, with various combinations of elements.
Gumballs were introduced in 1907 and were available through special gumball machines. In the 1950s, gumballs were sold in a variety of flavors, including cotton candy, watermelon, grape, and more. Bubble gum cigars, bubble gum cigarettes, bazooka bubblegum, Chiclets, Freshen Up, Razzles, Hot Dog Gum, and C Howards Scented Gum were some of the popular bubble gum and gumball brands of the 1950s.
Sales of Dubble Bubble surpassed $1.5 million in the first year of its introduction. The cultural attitudes linked to gum even birthed a distinct genre of music. Bubble gum became popular with kids and pre-teens, while chewing gum became increasingly associated with teenagers and the “high school” aesthetic.
In conclusion, bubble gum and gumballs were a staple of the 1950s candy scene. With their fruity flavors and colorful packaging, they captured the hearts of children and adults alike.
Sugar-Free and Dental Candy Options
For those who are looking for sugar-free options or are concerned about dental health, there are a few popular candy options from the 50s that fit the bill. One option is sugar-free hard candy. Werther’s Sugar-Free Caramel Chocolate Hard Candy contains only 40 calories, 1 gram of saturated fat, and 14 grams of carbohydrate for five candies. It is a great option for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without the added sugar.
Another option is dental candy, which is designed to promote oral health. One popular dental candy from the 50s is Xylitol gum. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay and promote healthy teeth. Xylitol gum is available in a variety of flavors and is a great option for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat while also promoting dental health.
Finally, there are also a variety of sugar-free gum options available from the 50s. One popular option is Wrigley’s Spearmint Gum, which has been a staple in the gum industry for decades. It is a great option for those who want to freshen their breath and enjoy a sweet treat without the added sugar.
Overall, there are a variety of sugar-free and dental candy options available from the 50s that are still popular today. Whether you are looking to indulge in a sweet treat without the added sugar or promote dental health, there is a candy option that is right for you.
Novelty and Seasonal Sweets
Halloween Favorites
Halloween is a time of year when people of all ages enjoy dressing up in costumes and going trick-or-treating. During the 1950s, some of the most popular Halloween candies included Candy Corn, which was first introduced in the 1880s, and Mary Janes, which were introduced in 1914. These classic candies were joined by new favorites like Atomic Fireballs, which were invented in 1954, and Dubble Bubble Gum, which was first introduced in 1928 but gained popularity in the 1950s.
Christmas Specialties
Christmas is another holiday that is associated with sweet treats. During the 1950s, some of the most popular Christmas candies included Ribbon Candy, which was first introduced in the 19th century, and Candy Canes, which have been a popular Christmas treat since the 1920s. Other popular Christmas candies during the 1950s included Lifesavers, which were first introduced in 1912, and Hershey’s Kisses, which were first introduced in 1907.
In addition to these classic candies, there were also novelty Christmas candies that were introduced during the 1950s. These included Santa Claus Pez dispensers, which were first introduced in the 1950s, and Christmas-themed candy bars, such as the Nestle Crunch Jingle Bells candy bar. These novelty candies were popular with children and adults alike, and they continue to be a part of the holiday season today.
Candy Packaging and Advertising
Iconic Branding
In the 1950s, candy manufacturers started massive advertising campaigns for Halloween candy. This led to the creation of some iconic branding that is still recognizable today. One such example is the Reese’s Pieces product placement in the movie E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. This marketing campaign has withstood the test of time and is still remembered fondly by many.
Innovative Packaging
Candy packaging in the 1950s was innovative and eye-catching. Companies like Brach’s and Milky Way used colorful and bold packaging to catch the attention of consumers. Dubble Bubble gum was sold in a unique twist-wrap package that made it easy to carry around and share with friends.
In addition to being visually appealing, candy packaging in the 1950s was also designed to be practical. For example, Hot Tamales candy came in a resealable box that allowed people to enjoy the candy at their own pace.
Overall, candy packaging and advertising in the 1950s was both creative and practical. The iconic branding and innovative packaging of this era have helped to shape the candy industry into what it is today.
Cultural Impact of 50s Candy
The 1950s was a decade of optimism and prosperity in America, and candy played a significant role in the cultural landscape of the time. Candy became more affordable and available, and people of all ages enjoyed the sweet treats. Here are some ways in which 50s candy had a cultural impact:
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Candy as a symbol of abundance: In the 1950s, candy was seen as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. After the hardships of World War II, people wanted to indulge in the sweet things in life. Candy was often given as a reward for good behavior, and it was a popular gift for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.
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Candy and childhood nostalgia: Many people who grew up in the 1950s have fond memories of their favorite candies. These nostalgic feelings are often associated with a simpler time in life when things were less complicated. Some of the most popular candies from the 50s, like Pez and Pixy Stix, are still available today and continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia.
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Candy and social status: In the 1950s, candy was a way to show off one’s social status. Some candies, like Whitman’s Sampler, were seen as more upscale and were often given as gifts to impress others. Other candies, like candy cigarettes, were marketed to children and were seen as a way to mimic adult behavior.
Overall, candy played an important role in the cultural landscape of the 1950s. It was a symbol of abundance, childhood nostalgia, and social status. Today, many of the most popular candies from the 50s are still enjoyed by people of all ages and continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness.