The Sweet Facts About Skittles: Everything You Need to Know

Skittles are more than just colorful, bite-sized candies. They have become a staple treat for many, with fans ranging from kids to adults. With their bright hues and fruity flavors, it’s no wonder why Skittles remain a beloved candy option worldwide. In this article, we’ll uncover some sweet facts about Skittles that you might not have known before.

The History of Skittles

Skittle candies were first introduced in the UK back in 1974 by a company called Rowntree’s. A few years later, the brand was acquired by Mars, Inc., and soon after, Skittles were introduced to the United States in 1982.

Initially, Skittles only came in five different flavors: orange, lemon, lime, grape, and strawberry. However, over time, the brand has introduced new flavors such as tropical fruit, sour, wild berry, and even limited edition flavors like Zombie Skittles.

What’s Inside Skittles?

Skittles are made up of mostly sugar, corn syrup, and hydrogenated palm kernel oil. In fact, almost 98% of a Skittle is made up of sugar! However, the brand has made efforts to offer healthier options, such as introducing Skittles with no artificial flavors or colors.

While Skittles may not be the healthiest option, they do offer a gluten-free and gelatin-free candy option for those with dietary restrictions.

Why Do Skittles Come in Different Colors?

Skittles come in a variety of colors, and each color represents a specific flavor. For example, the purple Skittle is grape-flavored, while the red Skittle is strawberry-flavored.

However, not all Skittles flavors are created equally. According to a study conducted by Brian Wansink, a professor at Cornell University, people perceive the flavors of Skittles based on their color. This means that people associate the yellow Skittle with a lemon flavor, even though it has an identical flavor profile to the green Skittle, which is lime-flavored.

The Marketing Magic Behind Skittles

Skittles have become iconic not only for their unique flavors but also for their memorable marketing campaigns. The brand has a history of creating quirky and humorous advertisements, like the “Taste the Rainbow” campaign, which features colorful and sometimes bizarre characters.

In recent years, the brand has also been known for their standout Super Bowl commercials, like the 2018 “Skittles Commercial: The Broadway Musical.”

Conclusion

There’s no denying that Skittles are a popular and beloved candy option around the world. From their history to their unique flavors and marketing, Skittles have proven to be a candy with staying power. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying Skittles for the first time, there’s always something new to learn about these sweet treats.