M&Ms have been a beloved candy for decades, but how much do you really know about their history? These colorful, candy-coated chocolates have a story as rich as their flavor. Did you know they were originally created for soldiers during World War II? The hard shell kept the chocolate from melting in their hands. Over the years, M&Ms have evolved, introducing new flavors, colors, and even characters that have become iconic. From their humble beginnings to becoming a global sensation, M&Ms have a fascinating journey worth exploring. Ready to dive into 35 intriguing facts about M&Ms history? Let's get started!
Key Takeaways:
- M&Ms have a rich history dating back to 1941, when they were created for the U.S. military. From space travel to art, they've become a global icon with a commitment to sustainability and innovation.
- The colorful candy has evolved over the years, introducing new flavors, collaborating with pop culture, and supporting charitable causes. M&Ms continue to embrace technology and creativity while striving for a more sustainable future.
The Birth of M&Ms
M&Ms have been a beloved candy for decades. Their colorful shells and chocolatey goodness make them a favorite for many. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about their history.
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M&Ms were created in 1941 by Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie. The name "M&M" stands for Mars and Murrie.
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The idea for M&Ms came from soldiers in the Spanish Civil War who ate chocolate pellets coated in a hard shell to prevent melting.
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The original M&Ms were sold exclusively to the U.S. military during World War II. They were included in soldiers' rations.
Evolution of M&Ms
Over the years, M&Ms have evolved in many ways. From new flavors to different colors, the candy has seen many changes.
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In 1950, the first M&Ms slogan, "Melts in your mouth, not in your hand," was introduced.
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Peanut M&Ms were introduced in 1954, adding a new twist to the classic candy.
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The same year, M&Ms characters made their debut in commercials, becoming iconic mascots.
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In 1960, M&Ms added yellow, red, and green to their color lineup, expanding from the original brown.
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Blue M&Ms were introduced in 1995 after a public vote to replace the tan color.
M&Ms Around the World
M&Ms are enjoyed globally, but there are some unique variations and interesting facts about their international presence.
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In Australia, M&Ms are known as "Smarties," which can be confusing since Smarties in the U.S. are a different candy.
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Japan has unique M&Ms flavors like green tea and wasabi, catering to local tastes.
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In the UK, M&Ms are sold under the name "Treets" to avoid confusion with another candy.
Fun Facts About M&Ms
M&Ms have a rich history filled with fun and quirky facts. Here are some that might surprise you.
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M&Ms were the first candy to be taken into space. They were part of the space shuttle Columbia's cargo in 1981.
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The "M" on each M&M was originally printed in black. It wasn't until 1954 that it was changed to white.
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M&Ms have appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, including "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial."
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The M&Ms World store in Las Vegas is four stories tall and features a giant wall of M&Ms in every color imaginable.
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M&Ms have been used in scientific studies, including one that tested the effects of color on taste perception.
M&Ms and Pop Culture
M&Ms have made their mark on pop culture in various ways. From commercials to collaborations, they've become more than just a candy.
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In 1996, M&Ms partnered with NASCAR, sponsoring a race car driven by Ernie Irvan.
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The M&Ms characters have starred in their own video games, including "M&Ms: The Lost Formulas."
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M&Ms have collaborated with numerous brands, including a special edition Star Wars-themed M&Ms.
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The M&Ms characters have their own social media accounts, where they interact with fans and share updates.
M&Ms and Charity
M&Ms have also played a role in charitable efforts, using their popularity to make a difference.
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In 2004, M&Ms launched the "Colorworks" program, allowing customers to create custom M&Ms with personalized messages. Part of the proceeds went to charity.
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M&Ms have supported various causes, including breast cancer awareness and disaster relief efforts.
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The M&Ms brand has partnered with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to help build homes for those in need.
M&Ms and Technology
M&Ms have embraced technology in various ways, from production to marketing.
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In 2016, M&Ms introduced a new production line that uses 3D printing technology to create custom designs on M&Ms.
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The M&Ms website features an interactive tool that allows users to create their own custom M&Ms with personalized messages and images.
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M&Ms have used augmented reality in their marketing campaigns, allowing customers to interact with the M&Ms characters in new and exciting ways.
M&Ms and Sustainability
M&Ms are also committed to sustainability, making efforts to reduce their environmental impact.
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M&Ms have pledged to use 100% sustainable cocoa by 2025, ensuring that their chocolate is ethically sourced.
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The brand has also committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and water usage in its production processes.
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M&Ms packaging is being redesigned to be more eco-friendly, with a goal of using 100% recyclable materials by 2025.
M&Ms and Innovation
M&Ms continue to innovate, introducing new flavors and products to keep fans excited.
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In 2019, M&Ms launched a new flavor, Hazelnut Spread, inspired by the popularity of hazelnut spreads like Nutella.
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M&Ms have also introduced limited-edition flavors, such as Pumpkin Spice and White Chocolate Peppermint, to celebrate different seasons and holidays.
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The brand has experimented with different textures, including crispy and caramel-filled M&Ms, to offer a variety of options for consumers.
M&Ms and Art
M&Ms have even made their way into the art world, inspiring creativity in various forms.
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Artists have used M&Ms to create intricate mosaics and sculptures, showcasing the candy's vibrant colors.
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M&Ms have been featured in pop art, with artists like Andy Warhol incorporating the candy into their work.
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The M&Ms brand has hosted art competitions, encouraging fans to create their own M&Ms-inspired artwork.
The Sweet Legacy of M&Ms
M&Ms have a rich history that spans decades, from their creation during World War II to becoming a beloved candy worldwide. These colorful treats have not only satisfied sweet cravings but also played roles in pop culture, advertising, and even space travel. Their journey from a practical solution for soldiers to a global phenomenon is nothing short of fascinating.
Understanding the origins of M&Ms and their evolution gives us a deeper appreciation for this iconic candy. Whether you're a fan of the classic milk chocolate, the peanut variety, or the newer flavors, there's no denying the impact M&Ms have had on our lives.
Next time you pop a handful of these candies, remember the incredible story behind them. M&Ms aren't just a snack; they're a piece of history wrapped in a colorful shell.
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