Quick! If the national of bulk candy had a capital, what city would it be? No, don’t look at the headline for inspiration.

If you said Hershey, Pennsylvania you’re off by about 700 miles. We’ll give you a hint: Another sweet treat – the Twinkie – was also invented there. Still not sure?’

The Sweet Side Of The Windy City

The answer is Chicago, Illinois. More popular candy confections come from Chicago than from any other state in the country. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Some major players in the candy industry call Chicago home:

Mars Inc has candy factories all over the United States and the world. The one in Chicago opened in 1929 and is still in operation making one of America’s favorite treats – the Snickers Bar.

Of course, Mars makes more than just Snickers bars. There’s also Mars Crisp Crunchy Lovers Mix, Mars Chocolate Favorites, and then, of course, there’s M&M’s. From the classic mix to Peanut M&M’s, Crunchy M&M’s, and more custom colors than you can fit into even the most enthusiastic rainbow, we have Chicago to thank for everyone’s favorite melt in your mouth, not in your hand treat.

Mars isn’t the only one making chocolate favorites in Chicago. Tootsie Roll Industries maker of Tootsie Rolls and Tootsie Pops and Tootsie Roll Frooties are also made in the city. Tootsie Rolls were the first penny candies to come in individual wrappings. We’re not saying that’s why they’re still a favorite for children (and adults) of all ages, but it probably didn’t hurt.

A certain gum manufacturer also comes from Chicago. You might be surprised to learn that the stadium is named after the gum manufacturer, not the other way around. The company was founded in 1891 by William Wrigley Jr. The stadium didn’t open until 1914. In 1921, William Wrigley Jr. became owner of the Cubs baseball team. By 1927, they’d named the stadium after him. It’s safe to say that plenty of Wrigley’s Gum is chewed in the stands.

Another classic of the Chicago candy scene is Lemonheads. These sour-sweet candies were invented at Ferrara Pan Candy company in the 1960’s. Cooked up by an Italian baker, they quickly became a crowd favorite.

Other factories started in Chicago and have since moved to other cities. The most famous of these is probably Brach’s. Getting people to agree on exactly what they’re famous for is the problem. Some say it’s their Brach’s Candy Corn other say it’s the Brach Milk Maid Caramels. We’re pretty partial to the Brach Salt Water Taffy.

You had no idea the city that gave the nation its first televised presidential debate could be so sweet did you? So when we build the bulk candy empire, don’t be surprised when we make Chicago the capital. Find even more bulk candy from Chicago and cities around the world in our online candy store.