Candy corn controversy: jelly belly’s surprising connection revealed
What To Know
- While the company acquired Brach’s Confections, which produced candy corn, the rights to the candy corn brand and recipe remained with Ferrara Candy Company, which had purchased the rights from Brach’s in 2012.
- Ferrara Candy Company, a subsidiary of Ferrero, is the current owner of the candy corn brand and recipe.
- Brach’s Candy Corn is produced by Ferrara Candy Company, while Jelly Belly Candy Corn is produced by Jelly Belly Candy Company.
Candy corn, a beloved Halloween treat, has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Its origins are often attributed to George Renninger, a confectioner from Philadelphia. In 1880, Renninger is said to have created the first batch of candy corn, which he initially called “chicken feed.”
The Rise of Jelly Belly: A Candy Empire
Jelly Belly Candy Company, founded in 1869, is renowned for its vast array of jelly bean flavors. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings to include other confections, but does it include candy corn?
Jelly Belly’s Acquisition of Brach’s Confections
In 2007, Jelly Belly acquired Brach‘s Confections, a well-established candy manufacturer known for its production of candy corn. This acquisition raised questions about whether Jelly Belly had become the owner of candy corn.
The Answer: No, Jelly Belly Does Not Own Candy Corn
Contrary to popular belief, Jelly Belly does not own candy corn. While the company acquired Brach’s Confections, which produced candy corn, the rights to the candy corn brand and recipe remained with Ferrara Candy Company, which had purchased the rights from Brach’s in 2012.
Ferrara Candy Company: The Current Owner of Candy Corn
Ferrara Candy Company, a subsidiary of Ferrero, is the current owner of the candy corn brand and recipe. The company produces candy corn under the Brach’s label, ensuring that this iconic treat continues to grace Halloween celebrations.
The Jelly Belly Candy Corn Connection
Despite not owning the candy corn brand, Jelly Belly does produce its own version of the treat. However, their candy corn is marketed as “Jelly Belly Candy Corn” and is not associated with the Brach’s brand.
Other Candy Corn Producers
In addition to Ferrara Candy Company, several other confectionery companies produce candy corn, including:
- Mars Wrigley
- Tootsie Roll Industries
- Spangler Candy Company
- Necco Wafer Company
Candy Corn: A Halloween Tradition
Regardless of who owns the candy corn brand, this sweet treat has become an indispensable part of Halloween celebrations. Its vibrant colors, distinctive shape, and nostalgic flavor evoke memories of childhood and the excitement of the holiday.
What People Want to Know
Q: Who invented candy corn?
A: George Renninger is credited with creating the first batch of candy corn in 1880.
Q: Does Jelly Belly own the candy corn brand?
A: No, Jelly Belly does not own the candy corn brand. Ferrara Candy Company owns the rights to the brand and recipe.
Q: Who produces Jelly Belly Candy Corn?
A: Jelly Belly produces its own version of candy corn, marketed as “Jelly Belly Candy Corn.”
Q: What is the difference between Brach’s Candy Corn and Jelly Belly Candy Corn?
A: Brach’s Candy Corn is produced by Ferrara Candy Company, while Jelly Belly Candy Corn is produced by Jelly Belly Candy Company. Brach’s Candy Corn is the original brand, while Jelly Belly Candy Corn is a licensed product.
Q: Is candy corn vegan?
A: No, candy corn typically contains gelatin, which is an animal-derived ingredient. However, some vegan-friendly candy corn alternatives are available.