Skittles, the colorful and fruity candy, has captured the hearts of many around the world. Known for their vibrant colors and sweet taste, Skittles offer more than just a sugary treat. Here are some interesting facts about Skittles that might surprise you.

What Are Skittles?

Skittles are small, round, fruit-flavored candies that come in a rainbow of colors. They are known for their slogan, "Taste the Rainbow," which highlights the variety of flavors and colors that make Skittles unique.

The History of Skittles

Skittles were first produced in 1974 by a British company. Initially, they were imported to the United States in 1979 and quickly gained popularity. By 1982, Skittles were being manufactured in the U.S. The candy is now produced by Wrigley, a division of Mars, Inc.

What Are the Ingredients in Skittles?

Skittles are made from a combination of sugar, corn syrup, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, citric acid, and natural and artificial flavors. The colorful shell is created using food coloring. Each Skittle contains the following components:

• Sugar: The primary ingredient, providing sweetness.
• Corn Syrup: Adds to the chewy texture.
• Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil: Gives the candy its smoothness.
• Citric Acid: Enhances the fruity flavors.
• Food Coloring: Provides the vibrant colors.

Flavors and Variations

Skittles are available in various flavors and special editions, offering something for everyone. The original Skittles come in five flavors:

1. Strawberry
2. Orange
3. Lemon
4. Green Apple (previously Lime)
5. Grape

Over the years, Skittles has introduced numerous variations, including:

• Tropical: Featuring exotic flavors like banana berry and kiwi lime.
• Wild Berry: Includes berry punch and raspberry.
• Sour: Adds a tangy twist to the original flavors.
• Desserts: Inspired by popular dessert flavors.

Why Did Skittles Change the Green Flavor?

In 2013, Skittles replaced the lime flavor with green apple in the United States, a decision that sparked mixed reactions among fans. Many nostalgic consumers still reminisce about the original lime flavor, which is available in some international markets.

Fun Facts About Skittles

• Skittles Are Vegan: As of 2009, Skittles no longer contain gelatin, making them suitable for vegans.
• Skittles and Taste Buds: The candy’s shell dissolves quickly, allowing the flavors to hit the taste buds almost immediately.
• Skittles in Space: In 2011, Skittles were sent to the International Space Station as part of a care package for astronauts.
• Marketing Genius: Skittles’ "Taste the Rainbow" campaign is one of the most successful and long-running marketing campaigns in the candy industry.

How Are Skittles Made?

The production of Skittles involves several steps:

1. Mixing: Ingredients like sugar and corn syrup are mixed to create the candy base.
2. Molding: The mixture is shaped into small, round candies.
3. Coating: Each piece is coated with a colorful shell using food coloring.
4. Polishing: The candies are polished to give them their shiny appearance.

Skittles and Pop Culture

Skittles have made their way into pop culture through various mediums:

• Movies and TV Shows: Frequently featured in films and series as a popular snack.
• Sports: Marshawn Lynch, an NFL player, famously consumed Skittles during games, boosting the candy’s popularity.
• Social Media: Skittles has a strong presence on platforms like Twitter, engaging fans with humorous content.

People Also Ask

What is the original Skittles flavor lineup?

The original Skittles flavors included strawberry, orange, lemon, lime, and grape. In 2013, lime was replaced with green apple in the U.S.

Are Skittles gluten-free?

Yes, Skittles are gluten-free, making them a suitable snack for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How many calories are in a pack of Skittles?

A standard pack of Skittles (about 2.17 ounces) contains approximately 250 calories.

What is the most popular Skittles flavor?

Strawberry is often cited as the most popular Skittles flavor, cherished for its sweet and tangy taste.

Do Skittles expire?

Skittles have a shelf life of about two years when stored in a cool, dry place. However, they may lose flavor and texture over time.

Conclusion

Skittles offer a delightful burst of flavor and color that has made them a beloved candy worldwide. From their intriguing history and diverse flavors to their impact on pop culture, Skittles continue to captivate candy lovers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the classic flavors or enjoy trying new variations, Skittles provide a sweet treat that truly lets you "Taste the Rainbow."

For more information on candy history or other popular snacks, consider exploring related topics like the history of M&M’s or the evolution of gummy bears.