National Gummi Worm Day is celebrated on July 15, and adults still love trying new gummi flavors, colors, and shapes. More than kids, grown-ups have made gummi worms super popular worldwide. ‘Gummi’ means ‘rubber’, so you can stretch the candy before eating it or bite off a piece.
Know The History of National Gummi Worm Day
According to some sources, National Gummi Worm Day can be traced back to the creative marketing team at Trolli, a German confectionery company that introduced gummi worms in 1981-on July 15.
They created the worms as a playful twist on the popular gummi bears, which had been around since 1920. Hans Riegel invented The gummi bear in Bonn, who started making candy in his kitchen.
Riegel’s company, HARIBO, produced soft, fruity gelatin dancing bears that reminded people of European circuses and festivals.
These bears quickly became popular worldwide. Trolli wanted to offer kids something with a “gross-out” factor to amuse their parents, so they created gummi worms.
While gummi historians disagree, some believe that Trolli introduced gummi worms on July 15, the anniversary of the bears’ creation in Bonn.
After the bears became popular, other gelatin candies appeared in different shapes, but none could surpass the bears until the worms came along. To celebrate their success, Trolli gave the worms their own special day.
In 2004, Trolli introduced another unusual candy shape-roadkill. They made gummi squirrels, chickens, and snakes with tire tracks to look like they had been run over.
By then, Kraft Foods had acquired the Trilli U.S. brand, and due to consumer protests, they had to remove these candies from the market the next year.
Today, Gummi worms are available in sweet and sour varieties. They can be dual-color and dual-flavor. They have been served in ice cream, used to make vodka shots, and even stuck halfway into the frosting of chocolate cake to make dessert more fun.
They are a key part of the global gummi and jellied candy market, predicted to reach $40 billion between 2020 and 2024.
| 1983 (The Candy Man Can) | Scott Albanese opens his first candy store in Merrillville, Indiana when regional unemployment was 16%, and the business thrived. |
| 2008 (Rebuffing Buffett) | Hans Riegel Jr. turns down a buyout offer for HARIBO from Warren Buffett. |
| 2009 (French Kiss) | The French Foreign Legion inducts Hans Riegel into the Legion of Honour as a Chevalier — a rare recognition for a foreigner. |
| 2020 (Win with Worms) | Trolli partners with PlayStation® in ‘The Deliciously Dark Escape,’ in which players help gummi worms disappear into a monster’s mouth to win prizes. |
4 Interesting Facts About Gummi Worm Sizes
- The world’s largest gummi worm grew into a 7-foot, 26-pound, 36,720-calorie snake that costs $150.
- A regular gummi worm measures 2 inches long.
- Top brand Albanese offers Mini Gummi Worms in 12 fruity flavors: Cherry, Pink Grapefruit, Watermelon, Strawberry, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Lime, Grape, Green Apple, Mango, Pineapple, and Lemon.
- The whopper worm is the same as 128 regular gummy worms.
Why We Love Gummi Worms: A Nostalgic Treat
Gummi worms hold a special place in the hearts of many for several reasons. For one, they evoke a sense of nostalgia. Many people have fond memories of enjoying gummi worms as children, whether it was at a birthday party, in a lunchbox, or as a reward for good behavior. The playful shape and bright colors make gummi worms a fun and engaging treat that appeals to the inner child in all of us.
Additionally, gummi worms are often associated with fun and celebration. They are a popular addition to party favors, candy buffets, and even classroom treats. The vibrant colors and chewy texture make them a hit with kids and adults alike, adding an element of excitement to any event.
Conclusion
National Gummi Worm Day on July 15 celebrates a confectionery innovation that has captured the imagination of candy lovers worldwide. From their playful origins as a quirky twist on gummi bears to their current status as a beloved treat, gummi worms have evolved into a symbol of nostalgia and fun.
Their success story, marked by creative marketing and a touch of whimsy, highlights how a simple candy can become a cultural phenomenon. Whether enjoyed as a childhood favorite or a fun addition to modern desserts and celebrations, gummi worms continue to bring joy and a touch of sweetness to people of all ages. As the global gummi market grows, gummi worms remain a testament to the enduring appeal of candy’s playful side.
Frequently Asked Question
Do gummy worms have gelatin?
The most common types of gummy worms usually contain gelatin, sugar, water, corn syrup or glucose syrup, flavorings (like fruit extracts or artificial flavors), coloring agents, and sometimes citric acid for a sour taste.
Why did Trolli create gummi worms?
Trolli created gummi worms to offer a new and amusing alternative to gummi bears, incorporating a “gross-out” factor to entertain kids and their parents.
What are some notable products related to gummi worms?
Besides the classic gummi worms, Trolli introduced other novelty shapes like roadkill gummies in 2004, although they were quickly withdrawn due to consumer protests.
What other gummi shapes can you find today?
You can find gummi llamas, gummi sloths, gummi dinosaurs, gummi Smurfs, gummi hands, gummi creatures, gummi octopi, and gummi evil twins, which combine sweet and sour flavors in one piece.
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