M&M’s, the colorful candy-coated chocolates, have been a favorite treat for decades. However, over the years, some colors have come and gone. The tan M&M color was discontinued in 1995 and replaced by blue after a public vote. This change marked a significant moment in the brand’s history, showcasing consumer engagement and preference.
Why Was the Tan M&M Discontinued?
The decision to discontinue the tan M&M was largely driven by a marketing strategy aimed at refreshing the brand and engaging consumers. In 1995, Mars, the company behind M&M’s, held a public vote to introduce a new color. The options were blue, pink, and purple. Blue emerged victorious with 54% of the votes, leading to the tan M&M’s retirement.
The Impact of the Color Change
- Consumer Engagement: The voting campaign was a brilliant marketing move. It engaged consumers and created a buzz around the brand.
- Brand Refresh: Introducing blue added a modern touch to the classic M&M lineup, appealing to younger audiences.
- Market Trends: The change reflected broader trends in consumer preferences for vibrant and appealing colors.
How Do M&M Colors Affect Consumer Choices?
Colors play a crucial role in consumer behavior. They can influence perceptions, emotions, and even taste expectations. M&M’s color variety is not just for aesthetics; it enhances the eating experience.
- Psychological Impact: Bright colors like blue and green are often associated with positive emotions, making them more appealing.
- Variety and Choice: Offering a range of colors gives consumers a sense of variety, even when the flavor remains the same.
- Marketing and Branding: Colors are integral to branding and can influence brand perception and loyalty.
The Evolution of M&M Colors
M&M’s have undergone several color changes since their introduction in 1941. Here’s a brief timeline of significant changes:
- 1941: Original colors included red, yellow, green, brown, and violet.
- 1950: Violet was replaced by tan.
- 1976: Red was temporarily replaced by orange due to health concerns over red dye.
- 1987: Red made a comeback.
- 1995: Tan was replaced by blue after a public vote.
M&M Color Timeline Table
| Year | Color Change | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1941 | Original colors introduced | Market debut |
| 1950 | Violet replaced by tan | Consumer preference |
| 1976 | Red replaced by orange | Health concerns |
| 1987 | Red reintroduced | New dye approval |
| 1995 | Tan replaced by blue | Public vote |
What Colors Are in the Current M&M Lineup?
As of now, M&M’s come in a vibrant mix of colors that include:
- Red
- Yellow
- Green
- Blue
- Orange
- Brown
This colorful assortment is designed to appeal to a wide range of consumers, offering both nostalgia and modern appeal.
People Also Ask
How Do M&M’s Get Their Colors?
M&M’s are colored using food-safe dyes. The candy shell is made by a process called panning, where the chocolate centers are tumbled in a coating drum with the dye and sugar mixture until they achieve the desired color and finish.
Are There Limited Edition M&M Colors?
Yes, Mars frequently releases limited edition M&M colors for special occasions, holidays, or promotions. These can include colors like pink for Valentine’s Day or pastel shades for Easter.
Why Are M&M’s Different Colors?
The different colors of M&M’s are primarily for visual appeal and marketing. They create a fun and engaging product that stands out on shelves and offers a visually pleasing experience for consumers.
Can You Customize M&M Colors?
Yes, Mars offers a service called "My M&M’s" where consumers can customize M&M colors and even add personalized messages or images, making them perfect for events and gifts.
What Happened to the Purple M&M?
Purple was one of the color options in the 1995 vote but did not win. However, purple M&M’s have appeared in special editions and custom orders.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of the tan M&M and the introduction of blue was a strategic move that revitalized the brand and engaged consumers in a new way. Understanding the history and significance of M&M colors provides insight into effective marketing strategies and consumer behavior. Whether you’re reminiscing about past colors or enjoying the current lineup, M&M’s continue to be a beloved treat worldwide.
For more on the history of candy innovation or marketing strategies, explore our articles on the evolution of candy packaging and consumer engagement tactics.
