Who Invented Candy? The Sweet History

The invention of candy cannot be credited to any one individual, as this sugary treat has evolved across civilizations and continents over thousands of years. Historians remain divided on exactly where and when candy first emerged, but its story is as rich and flavorful as the candies themselves.

Ancient Beginnings

The term “candy” comes from the Persian word qandi, meaning sugar. But the tradition of sweetening food dates back much further. In ancient Egypt, drawings on papyrus scrolls over 2,000 years old depict honey-based confections. These early candies were crafted by blending honey with fruits and nuts, then heating the mixture.

The Romans, Greeks, and Chinese had their own versions of sugary delights. They made simple candies from boiled barley sugar, often combining it with sesame seeds. In those times, sweet treats were a luxury, often reserved for religious offerings or the elite.

Candy as Medicine in the Middle Ages

In medieval Europe, sugar was considered medicinal. Apothecaries sold sugar candies infused with herbs and spices to treat ailments. Due to the high cost of sugar, these early sweets were primarily consumed by royalty and the wealthy.

Recipes from this era also included honey and nut mixtures, fruit preserves, and early versions of nougat. In 1519, cacao was discovered by the Spanish in Mexico and soon brought to Europe, marking the beginning of chocolate’s influence on the world of candy.

Candy in the Industrial Age (1700s–1800s)

During the 18th and 19th centuries, sugar became more affordable and machinery improved. These developments led to mass production of candy. By the 1850s, America was home to hundreds of candy factories.

Some milestones from this period include:

• 1854: Whitman’s debuted boxed chocolates.

• 1880: Candy corn was created, eventually becoming a Halloween favorite.

• 1893: Will Wrigley Jr. launched Juicy Fruit and Spearmint gum.

• 1896: The first Tootsie Roll was produced by Leo Hirschfield.

Candy in the 20th Century Boom

The 1900s saw candy rise to commercial stardom. In 1900, Milton S. Hershey introduced Hershey’s Milk Chocolate, followed by Hershey’s Kisses in 1906. Key developments include:

• 1912: Life Savers launched.

• 1913: Goo Goo Clusters were introduced—the first combination candy bar.

• 1920: Baby Ruth bar released (named after President Cleveland’s daughter, not the baseball player).

• 1923: Milky Way bars were created.

• 1928: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups debuted.

• 1930: Snickers hit the market.

• 1932: The Three Musketeers bar was born.

Later decades brought Junior Mints, Smarties, Starburst, Lemonheads, and Sweet Tarts—many of which still remain popular today.

A Legacy That Still Tastes Sweet

From ancient honey treats to mass-produced chocolate bars, the history of candy is a fascinating blend of cultural evolution, technological innovation, and pure indulgence. Its worldwide popularity today is proof of how deeply this sweet obsession has taken root.