It's a question that pops up, often while you're mindlessly popping those colorful little candies: who invented Skittles? We all know them, right? The "taste the rainbow" folks. They're a staple in candy aisles, a go-to for movie nights, and, as it turns out, a surprisingly versatile ingredient for creative treats.
I was recently looking into how to make these fun "Rainbow Marshmallow Pops" – a delightful idea for parties where you crush Skittles into a colorful powder and dip marshmallows in it. It got me thinking about the origins of the candy itself. So, I dug a little.
While the exact individual inventor remains a bit of a sweet mystery, we do know the company behind the magic. Frank C. Mars, the visionary behind the Mars candy company, founded it way back in 1911. That's the same brilliant mind responsible for other household names like Twix, Snickers, and M&Ms. Pretty impressive lineage, wouldn't you say?
The Skittles brand itself made its debut in 1974. Interestingly, they first appeared and gained popularity in Britain. The name "Skittles" was actually inspired by a popular yard game of the same name in the UK. It wasn't until five years later, in 1979, that these vibrant candies made their way across the pond to the United States, where they quickly became a beloved fixture.
It's fascinating how a simple candy can have such a rich, albeit somewhat recent, history. And while we might not be able to pinpoint a single inventor, knowing they came from the Mars company and have roots in a British game adds a certain charm to every bite. Plus, knowing they're vegan and gluten-free is a nice bonus for many, making them accessible for a wider range of candy lovers. So next time you're enjoying a handful, you can appreciate the journey they've taken to get to your taste buds.
