Gobstoppers
Gobstoppers History
Gobstoppers are hard candies known for their layered colors and long-lasting flavor. Here's a brief history of Gobstoppers candy:
The origins of Gobstoppers can be traced back to ancient times when similar candies were made using natural ingredients such as honey and herbs. However, the modern version of Gobstoppers as we know them today was popularized in the 20th century.
The exact inventor of Gobstoppers is unclear, but the candy gained significant popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The term "gobstopper" is believed to have originated from British slang, referring to a large, jaw-breaking candy that can "stop" or "gob" someone's mouth.
One of the prominent brands associated with Gobstoppers is the Ferrara Candy Company, which began manufacturing the candies in the 1970s. The company introduced the brand "Everlasting Gobstoppers," emphasizing the long-lasting nature of the candy's flavor.
Gobstoppers are made by layering different colors and flavors of sugar syrup around a central core, typically a small candy or gum center. The candy is then coated with a hard shell, giving it its characteristic durability. As the outer layers dissolve slowly, new layers of flavor are revealed, providing an extended taste experience.
Gobstoppers gained popularity due to their unique and interactive nature. The long-lasting flavor and the challenge of trying to reach the different layers made them enjoyable for both children and adults. They became a staple in candy stores, vending machines, and movie theaters, where they were often associated with fun and entertainment.
Over time, variations of Gobstoppers have been introduced, including larger-sized ones and Gobstopper Jawbreakers, which have an even larger size and longer-lasting flavor. These variations offer a different experience for candy lovers seeking an extended and flavorful treat.
Today, Gobstoppers continue to be produced by various confectionery companies and are available in a wide range of flavors and sizes. They remain a popular choice for those who enjoy hard candies and appreciate the unique taste and long-lasting nature of Gobstoppers.
The history of Gobstoppers candy reflects their enduring appeal as a playful and flavorful treat. Their distinctive appearance, extended flavor experience, and association with childhood nostalgia have made Gobstoppers a beloved candy enjoyed by many.
Gobstoppers Flavors
Gobstoppers are available in a variety of flavor combinations and usually have a cherry-flavored chalky center. As you eat them each layer dissolves to reveal a different color and flavor. A Gobstopper with a chew center was also later released. Current outer-layer Gobstopper flavors include orange, cherry, lemon, watermelon, and grape.
Gobstoppers Memories
When I was a kid in the late 80’s, I attended summer camp sessions with a canteen. My parents would give me 15 dollars to use in the canteen to last the whole session, with the promise that I could keep any money that was left-over. With that in mind, I tried to make that money last as long as I could—mainly by always getting gobstoppers at snack time, which were much cheaper than candy bars or sodas.
However, at one session, I ate so many gobstoppers in the Georgia heat that I got pretty sick to my stomach. My memory of going to the camp infirmary is wonderful—the sweet camp nurse fussing over me, the cool, air-conditioned room with clean, not sandy sheets, the quiet respite from a busy sleep-away camp. My eight-year old self was thrilled. So while I can’t say I learned my lesson, since I kept eating gobstoppers everyday at snack time, I can say that they made an indelible impression on me. I’ll still buy a box of them if I’m on a road trip and enjoy their changing flavors and colors. ~ Susan from Georgia
