Solve the candy corn conundrum: the fascinating reason for its curious name
What To Know
- The shape of the candy, with its pointed ends and rounded base, mimics the shape of a kernel of corn.
- The three distinct colors of candy corn – yellow, orange, and white – represent the three stages of a corn kernel’s maturity.
- Whether you prefer to start with the white tip or the yellow end, candy corn remains a beloved symbol of Halloween and a sweet reminder of the harvest season.
The beloved candy corn, with its vibrant hues and sugary sweetness, has captivated generations of candy enthusiasts. But where did this iconic treat get its peculiar name? Let’s delve into the etymology of candy corn to uncover the secrets behind its moniker.
A Cornfield of Candy
The name “candy corn” is a direct reference to its resemblance to actual corn kernels. The shape of the candy, with its pointed ends and rounded base, mimics the shape of a kernel of corn. The golden yellow color of the candy also adds to the cornfield inspiration.
A Harvest of Colors
The three distinct colors of candy corn – yellow, orange, and white – represent the three stages of a corn kernel’s maturity. The yellow represents the unripened kernel, the orange represents the partially ripened kernel, and the white represents the fully ripened kernel.
A Sweet Legacy
Candy corn’s origins can be traced back to the late 1800s. It is believed that George Renninger, a candy maker from Philadelphia, first created candy corn in the 1880s. Renninger called his invention “chicken feed” due to its resemblance to corn kernels.
A Halloween Staple
Candy corn has become synonymous with Halloween since the early 1900s. The vibrant colors and festive shape make it a perfect treat for the spooky holiday. It is often used to decorate homes, fill candy bowls, and even make candy corn cobwebs.
A Marketing Marvel
In 1950, the Jelly Belly Candy Company, then known as the Goelitz Confectionery Company, purchased the rights to candy corn from George Renninger’s descendants. Jelly Belly renamed the candy “candy corn” and began marketing it as a Halloween staple.
The Candy Corn Wars
There is an ongoing debate among candy corn enthusiasts as to which end of the candy should be eaten first. Some prefer to start with the white tip, while others insist that the yellow end is the best way to begin. This “Candy Corn Wars” has sparked numerous online discussions and even friendly competitions.
Wrapping Up
The name “candy corn” perfectly encapsulates the essence of this iconic treat. Its shape, colors, and historical significance all contribute to its enduring popularity. Whether you prefer to start with the white tip or the yellow end, candy corn remains a beloved symbol of Halloween and a sweet reminder of the harvest season.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Why is candy corn shaped like corn kernels?
A: Candy corn‘s shape is inspired by the actual shape of corn kernels, with the pointed ends and rounded base.
Q: What do the three colors of candy corn represent?
A: The yellow represents unripened corn kernels, the orange represents partially ripened kernels, and the white represents fully ripened kernels.
Q: Who invented candy corn?
A: George Renninger, a candy maker from Philadelphia, is believed to have created candy corn in the 1880s.
Q: When did candy corn become popular for Halloween?
A: Candy corn has been associated with Halloween since the early 1900s, becoming a staple treat for the holiday.
Q: Which end of candy corn should be eaten first?
A: There is an ongoing debate among candy corn enthusiasts, with some preferring to start with the white tip and others preferring the yellow end.
