Pixy Stix

Pixy Stix History Pixy Stix is a popular powdered candy packaged in a straw-like tube. Here's a brief history of Pixy Stix: Invention and Early Years: Pixy Stix was created by the Sunline Inc. candy company, founded by J. Fish Smith in the United States in the 1940s. The cand...

Pixy Stix History

Pixy Stix is a popular powdered candy packaged in a straw-like tube. Here's a brief history of Pixy Stix:

  • Invention and Early Years: Pixy Stix was created by the Sunline Inc. candy company, founded by J. Fish Smith in the United States in the 1940s. The candy was originally called "Fruzola" and was introduced in the early 1950s. It consisted of a flavored and colored powdered sugar mixture packaged in a paper straw.
  • Rebranding as Pixy Stix: The candy's name was changed to "Pixy Stix" in the late 1950s. The exact reason for the name change is not well-documented, but it is believed that the name "Pixy Stix" was chosen to reflect the playful and whimsical nature of the candy.
  • Marketing and Popularity: Pixy Stix gained popularity due to its unique and fun packaging. The paper straws made it easy to pour the powdered candy directly into the mouth, providing a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. The candy was marketed as a quick and convenient treat for children.
  • Expansion of Flavors and Variations: Over the years, Pixy Stix expanded its flavor offerings beyond the original fruit flavors. Additional flavors, such as chocolate, were introduced to cater to different taste preferences. The candy also experimented with variations, including giant-sized Pixy Stix and multi-flavored packs.
  • Ownership Changes: The ownership of Pixy Stix has changed hands multiple times over the years. In 1980, Sunline Inc., the original creator of Pixy Stix, was acquired by the Quaker Oats Company. Later, in 1988, Quaker Oats sold Sunline Inc. to the Willy Wonka Candy Company, which was eventually acquired by Nestlé.
  • Enduring Popularity: Despite ownership changes and evolving trends in the candy industry, Pixy Stix has remained a beloved classic candy. It continues to be enjoyed by children and adults alike for its nostalgic appeal and flavorful powdered sugar experience.

Today, Pixy Stix remains available in various sizes and flavors, maintaining its reputation as a sweet and tangy powdered candy. Its distinctive packaging and delightful taste have made it a staple in the confectionery market for several generations.

Pixy Stix Memories

I was a child of the 70's and grew up in Hurst, Texas just three doors down from a Mr. M's convenience store. During those very long, hot summer days all the kids in the neighborhood would walk down to Mr. M's and buy candy. Everyone had their favorite but my favorite, by far, was Pixy Stix.

The cool girl on the block was Big Michelle. She was 10 and at just 6 I longed for the double-digit days. She'd let me walk with her to Mr. M's. She always bought candy cigarettes and I thought she looked so cool when she "smoked" them. However, this is where my idolization stopped apparently because I wouldn't give up my Pixy Stix...even to be like Big Michelle.

However, I mastered the art of "smoking" them just like Big Michelle smoked her candy cigs. If my mother had ever seen me, she'd have died! ~ Amy from Texas