Mike & Ike

Mike & Ike History

The history of Mike and Ike candy dates back to the 1940s when it was first introduced by the Just Born candy company. Mike and Ike are the names of two fictional characters who serve as the brand's mascots. Let's explore the story behind Mike and Ike candy.

Mike and Ike candy was created by Sam Born, a Russian immigrant who founded Just Born in 1923 in New York City. Just Born started as a small family-owned candy business, producing a variety of confectionery products.

The exact inspiration for the names "Mike" and "Ike" remains a bit of a mystery. It is said that the names were chosen to represent the two sides of a sales pitch. "Mike" was meant to appeal to more "mature" customers, while "Ike" was intended to attract younger consumers. The names were catchy and easy to remember, adding a playful element to the candy's branding.

Initially, Mike and Ike candy consisted of red and black flavors, which were cherry and licorice, respectively. However, in the 1950s, the company decided to change the black licorice flavor to a new flavor, which was replaced with a new blue-colored grape flavor. This change was made to appeal to a wider consumer base and to provide more variety.

Throughout the years, the popularity of Mike and Ike candy grew, and additional flavors were introduced. Some of the popular flavors include strawberry, lemon, lime, orange, and more. The candy pieces are small, oblong-shaped chewy candies with a soft texture and a sweet fruity taste.

Over time, the packaging of Mike and Ike candy also underwent several updates and redesigns to keep up with the changing times and consumer preferences. The brand's iconic yellow box with the faces of Mike and Ike became a recognizable symbol of the candy.

In recent years, Mike and Ike candy has expanded its product line to include different variations and limited-edition flavors to cater to changing consumer tastes and preferences. Just Born, the company behind the brand, continues to innovate and introduce new flavors and packaging designs to keep the candy fresh and appealing to a wide range of candy lovers.

Today, Mike and Ike candy remains a popular choice among candy enthusiasts of all ages. Its vibrant flavors, chewy texture, and playful branding have contributed to its enduring popularity. Whether enjoyed as a movie snack, a sweet treat, or shared with friends and family, Mike and Ike candy continues to be a beloved and recognizable brand in the confectionery world.

Mike & Ike Memories

Whenever I see Mike and Ike's I think of my brother as it's one of his all time favorite candies. He loves all the different fruit flavors and the fact that they are bite sized. When we were little, every other Friday night was movie night. Mom would put us in the car and take us to rent a VHS movie from the video store.

In the check out line we were allowed to grab a treat for the movie. He always went for the huge box of Mike and Ikes. The funny thing is, it still happens! Although now it's a DVD and a huge box of Mike and Ikes (oh, and Mom isn't driving him). ~ Shara from Illinois