ICYMI, I talked on the Friday show about the most popular Halloween candy on a year-by-year basis. I think that both candy corn and circus peanuts are unfairly maligned, so this list had both good news and bad news for me. However, equally interesting is WHY each candy became popular each year.
Some highlights from a list compiled by the website Delish.
- 1967: Starburst - They launched in the U.K. in the 60s and became a favorite when they hit the states in ‘67.
- 1971: Laffy Taffy - The jokes on the wrappers made this a Halloween favorite.
- 1975: Pop Rocks - Despite the urban legend, these won’t make your stomach explode.
- 1977: Tootsie Roll - They had a catchy jingle back then and this was their big moment.
- 1980: Big League Chew - This pouch of gum was a huge hit when it came out in 1980.
- 1981: Jelly Belly - Thank President Reagan for this one, they were a favorite of his.
- 1982: Reese’s Pieces - This is the year “E.T.” came out featuring the new-ish candy.
- 1985: Sour Patch Kids - Coming out at the height of Cabbage Patch Kids mania helped this candy become super popular.
- 1987: Air Heads - This new candy was an instant hit.
- 2002: M&Ms - Maybe it was the introduction of purple M&Ms that made these a favorite in 2002.
- 2004: Candy Corn - These are the classic Halloween candy, nice to see them on this list at least once.
No circus peanuts. Luckily, I can get them year-round still at my favorite farm supply store.