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Discovering the Origin of Candy Corn Plant:
A Historical Perspective

Updated: March 31, 2023

Candy corn is a staple of Halloween and fall celebrations. It’s a sweet, tri-colored treat that has been around for over a century. But where did it come from? Who invented it? In this article, we will delve into the history of candy corn and discover its origin.

The Birth of Candy Corn

Candy corn was invented in the late 1800s by George Renninger, an employee at the Wunderlee Candy Company in Philadelphia. At the time, candy makers were looking for new types of candy to sell during the fall months. Renninger came up with the idea of creating a candy that resembled corn kernels.

The original candy corn had a different name: “Chicken Feed.” It was marketed towards farmers because it resembled chicken feed, and they thought it would be a fun treat to give their chickens. Eventually, however, the candy became popular with everyone and was renamed “candy corn.”

The Evolution of Candy Corn

Over time, candy corn has evolved. Originally, it was made entirely by hand. Today, machines make most of the candy corn produced in the United States. Additionally, there are now many variations of candy corn, including chocolate-covered candy corn and caramel apple-flavored candy corn.

The Controversy Surrounding Candy Corn

Despite its popularity, candy corn is not without controversy. Some people love it, while others hate it. In fact, there are entire online forums dedicated to discussing whether or not candy corn is a good treat.

One of the reasons people dislike candy corn is that it is made with high fructose corn syrup. This ingredient has been linked to health problems like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, some people find the flavor and texture of candy corn unappealing.

The Future of Candy Corn

Despite its detractors, it seems likely that candy corn will continue to be a popular treat for years to come. Companies are always coming up with new flavors and variations on the classic tri-colored treat, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

FAQ

What are some popular variations of candy corn?

Some popular variations of candy corn include chocolate-covered candy corn, caramel apple-flavored candy corn, and s’mores-flavored candy corn.

Is candy corn vegan-friendly?

Most brands of candy corn are not vegan-friendly because they contain gelatin, which is made from animal products.

What is the nutritional content of candy corn?

One serving (about 19 pieces) contains 140 calories, 36 grams of carbohydrates (including 32 grams of sugar), and no protein or fat.

What should I do if I don’t like candy corn?

If you don’t like candy corn, there are plenty of other fall treats to enjoy. Consider trying apple cider donuts, pumpkin pie, or caramel apples instead.