Where Did Gummy Bears Come From? Interesting Facts on Shape and Popularity

Everyone has a favorite candy, and few have as huge a following as gummy bears. These anthropomorphic confections are as adorable as they are delicious, making them some of the most sought-after candies since their creation in the twentieth century. But what is it about these sweet treats that make them so appealing? Here’s how gummies took the shape of bears and became so popular.

From Humble Beginnings

While gummy candies have been around before the 1900s, most people give German confectioner Hans Riegel the title, “The father of gummy bears.” In the 1920s, Riegel developed a soft, gelatin-based treat in the shape of a bear that grew more popular as the years went by. He created Haribo, the prestigious gummy bear creator that everyone knows and loves today.

These special candies have transformed over the years from tall, skinny bears to the cute and compact teddies on shelves now. As the first and second world wars ravaged Europe, the candy company saw many changes to its corporate structure and leadership, which went on to establish Haribo as a pioneer in the world of gummy candies.

An International Delight

Gummy bears experienced an explosion in popularity in the mid-to-late 1900s in the United States. German language teachers often gifted students with these yummy treats to expose them to different foods. In addition, American soldiers brought back these delightfully delicious bears to their families after being stationed overseas.

As the gummy bear hysteria grew in the states, American candy companies wanted in on the success. Manufacturers like Black Forest and The American Jelly Belly Company started competing for space on the market, sparking a massive debate among candy connoisseurs; European or American? Gummy bears quickly became an international delight that continues to satisfy sweet tooths across the globe.

The Hollywood Influence

Even though gummy bears were quickly growing in popularity, they became famous when Hollywood started taking an interest. These gummy teddies found roles in so many forms of popular media, like TV shows, movies, and even musicals. Disney released The Adventures of the Gummi Bears in the ‘80s, and the candies even played a part in the Broadway show Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

Hollywood propelled gummy bears even further into the spotlight, featuring these candies on popular merchandise, like T-shirts, toys, and even jewelry! There is even a chart-topping song called The Gummy Bear Song that helped further cement these adorable sweets in our pop culture.

While there is a long and detailed history surrounding the life and history of these animal-inspired candies, gummies took the shape of bears and became so popular because of innovation and collective love for all things cute. Get your gummy fix from wholesale candy distributors like Sweet Services. Our collection of gummy candies and sweet treats is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.