Were m&mʼs created for the military?

Were M&M’s Created for the Military?

The beloved candy, M&M’s, has been a staple in many people’s snack routines for decades. But did you know that M&M’s were originally created for the military? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating history of M&M’s and explore the truth behind their creation.

The Origins of M&M’s

M&M’s were invented by Forrest Mars, Sr., the son of the founder of the Mars candy company, in 1941. Mars was inspired to create the candy after observing soldiers during the Spanish Civil War eating chocolate pellets with a hard shell of tempered chocolate to prevent the chocolate from melting. This observation would later become the foundation of M&M’s.

The Military Connection

Mars realized that the same concept could be applied to the American military during World War II. He believed that a candy with a hard shell would be perfect for soldiers in the field, as it would not melt or spoil easily. Mars approached the U.S. Army with his idea, and they agreed to test the candy.

In 1942, the U.S. Army issued a contract to the Mars candy company to produce a candy that would meet the military’s specifications. The candy was initially called "M&M’s" after Mars and his business partner, Bruce Murrie, the son of the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company.

The Original M&M’s Recipe

The original M&M’s recipe consisted of a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and chocolate. The candy was coated in a hard shell of tempered chocolate to prevent it from melting. The original M&M’s were also much larger than the ones we know today, with a diameter of about 1 inch.

The Production Process

The production process for M&M’s was also unique. The candy was made by hand, with workers coating the chocolate pellets in a hard shell of tempered chocolate. This process was time-consuming and labor-intensive, but it ensured that each M&M was coated evenly and consistently.

The Impact of M&M’s on the Military

M&M’s quickly became a hit with soldiers in the field. The candy was easy to eat on the go, and its hard shell made it resistant to melting and spoilage. M&M’s also provided a much-needed morale boost for soldiers, who appreciated the taste and convenience of the candy.

The Legacy of M&M’s

After the war, M&M’s became a popular candy for civilians as well. The candy’s popularity soared, and it became a staple in many American households. Today, M&M’s are enjoyed by people all over the world, and the candy has become a beloved brand.

Interesting Facts About M&M’s

Here are some interesting facts about M&M’s:

• M&M’s were originally sold in paper bags. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the candy was packaged in the iconic glass jars we know today.
• The original M&M’s colors were brown, yellow, and red. The colors were chosen because they were the most visible in the dark, making it easier for soldiers to find the candy in their rations.
• M&M’s were initially marketed as a "wartime candy". The candy’s packaging featured a patriotic design, and the company emphasized the candy’s role in supporting the war effort.
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• M&M’s have been to space. In 1985, M&M’s were included in the NASA Space Shuttle Challenger’s cargo bay. The candy was used to test the effects of zero gravity on the human palate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, M&M’s were indeed created for the military. The candy’s unique recipe and production process were designed to meet the military’s specifications, and it quickly became a hit with soldiers in the field. Today, M&M’s are enjoyed by people all over the world, and the candy has become a beloved brand. Whether you’re a history buff or just a fan of the candy, the story of M&M’s is a fascinating one that’s sure to delight.

Table: M&M’s History

Bullets List: M&M’s Fun Facts

• M&M’s were originally sold in paper bags
• The original M&M’s colors were brown, yellow, and red
• M&M’s were initially marketed as a "wartime candy"
• M&M’s have been to space