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If you close your eyes and think of candy, chances are Skittles will be one of the first things to pop into your mind. These colorful, fruit-flavored treats have been delighting taste buds around the world for decades, making them a beloved staple in the world of confectionery. But how much do you really know about Skittles? Prepare to be amazed as we delve into the fascinating world of this iconic candy brand and uncover some unexpected Skittles facts that will leave you seeing rainbows.
The Sweet Beginnings of Skittles
Skittles have a rich history that dates back to the early 1970s. Originally created by a British company, Skittles first made their commercial debut in 1974 when they were introduced to the world by the Mars Candy Company. These colorful candies quickly gained popularity and made their way to the United States as an imported confectionery in 1979. It wasn't long before local production of Skittles began in the U.S. in 1982, marking the start of their journey to becoming one of the most beloved fruit-flavored candies globally.
The Flavorful World of Skittles
One of the most striking features of Skittles is their wide variety of flavors and colors, which have captured the hearts of candy lovers everywhere. From the classic red, orange, green, purple, and yellow Original Skittles to exciting collections like Wild Berry, Dessert, Tropical, Sweet Heat, and Sour, there's a flavor for every palate. Made with a blend of sugar, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, corn syrup, citric acid, fruit juice, and natural and artificial flavors, Skittles offer a burst of fruity goodness in every bite.
Taste the Rainbow: The Skittles Slogan
In 1994, Skittles introduced its iconic slogan, "Taste the rainbow," which has since become synonymous with the brand. This catchy tagline was the brainchild of the New York ad agency D'Arcy Masius Benton & Bowles and has been a central part of Skittles' marketing strategy ever since.
Skittles’ Journey to Vegetarian-Friendly Candy
For many years, Skittles contained animal-derived gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegetarians. However, in 2009, the company made a significant change by removing gelatin from its ingredients, making Skittles a vegetarian-friendly candy option. This move opened up the world of Skittles to a broader audience, allowing more people to enjoy the fruity flavors of this beloved treat.
The Engineering Behind Skittles’ Colors
Did you know that the color blue used to be one of the most challenging dyes to create for food products back in the '70s? Due to the limited availability of safe blue colorings at the time, Skittles omitted blue from their original lineup. However, as technology advanced, Skittles responded to customer demand by introducing limited-edition blue Skittles in 2015, finally completing the rainbow of colors in their iconic candies.
Skittles: More Than Just a Candy
Skittles isn't just a delicious candy; it's a cultural phenomenon. With an unofficial mascot known as Yogurt Boy and a rich history that traces back to the ancient game of "skittles," this colorful candy has deep roots that reach across generations. Whether you're a fan of the classic Original Skittles or enjoy exploring new flavor variations like Skittles Dips or the latest yogurt flavor line, Skittles continues to innovate and captivate candy lovers worldwide.
The Future of Skittles: Sustainability and Innovation
Looking ahead, Mars Wrigley Brands, the parent company of Skittles, is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By 2025, the company aims to reduce waste and switch to 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging for its products. As Skittles continues to delight consumers with its vibrant flavors and colorful candies, it also strives to make a positive impact on the planet.
Conclusion
As you peel back the layers of Skittles' history and explore the colorful world of this beloved candy brand, it's clear that there's more to Skittles than meets the eye. From their humble beginnings in the '70s to their status as one of the world's most popular fruit-flavored candies, Skittles have captured the imaginations of candy lovers everywhere. So the next time you reach for a pack of Skittles and "Taste the rainbow," remember the sweet journey that brought these colorful treats into your hands. Enjoy every fruity bite, and let the magic of Skittles brighten your day!
