Conversation hearts, those small, pastel-colored candies with cute messages, have been a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations for over a century. But with the ever-changing candy landscape, many wonder: do they still sell conversation hearts? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of conversation hearts, their evolution, and most importantly, where to find them today.
A Brief History of Conversation Hearts
Conversation hearts have been around since 1866, when Daniel Chase, the brother of Oliver Chase, the founder of the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO), invented a machine that could press messages onto candies. Initially, the candies were called “hub wafers,” and they featured phrases like “Married in white, you have chosen right.” Over the years, the messages evolved to include more romantic and playful phrases, cementing their place as a Valentine’s Day favorite.
The Golden Age of Conversation Hearts
The mid-20th century is often referred to as the golden age of conversation hearts. During this time, NECCO produced over 8 billion conversation hearts per year, making them one of the most popular candies in the United States. The candies were a staple in American culture, with their iconic pastel colors and sweet messages becoming synonymous with Valentine’s Day.
The Decline and Rebirth of Conversation Hearts
In 2018, NECCO announced that it would be closing its doors due to financial difficulties. The news sent shockwaves through the candy community, with many fearing that conversation hearts would become a thing of the past. However, in 2019, the Spangler Candy Company, the manufacturer of Dum Dums and Circus Peanuts, acquired the rights to conversation hearts and other NECCO brands.
Spangler’s Revamp of Conversation Hearts
Under Spangler’s ownership, conversation hearts underwent a significant revamp. The company introduced new flavors, including blue raspberry and strawberry, and updated the packaging to feature more modern designs. However, the classic pastel colors and sweet messages remained the same, ensuring that the candies still felt nostalgic and authentic.
Where to Find Conversation Hearts Today
So, do they still sell conversation hearts? The answer is a resounding yes! Conversation hearts are widely available in stores and online. Here are some popular places to find them:
- Spangler Candy Company’s Website: You can purchase conversation hearts directly from the manufacturer’s website. They offer a variety of flavors and packaging options, including bulk purchases.
- Amazon: Amazon offers a wide selection of conversation hearts, including classic flavors and new varieties. You can even find conversation hearts in bulk or as part of a Valentine’s Day gift basket.
- Target: Target stores typically carry a limited selection of conversation hearts, usually in the candy aisle or as part of a seasonal display.
- Walmart: Walmart carries a variety of conversation hearts, including classic flavors and new varieties. You can find them in the candy aisle or online.
- CVS Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy often carries a limited selection of conversation hearts, usually in the candy aisle or as part of a seasonal display.
Specialty Stores and Online Retailers
If you’re looking for a specific type of conversation heart or a unique flavor, you may want to try a specialty store or online retailer. Some popular options include:
- Old Time Candy: This online retailer specializes in retro candies, including conversation hearts.
- Candy Warehouse: This online retailer carries a wide selection of conversation hearts, including bulk purchases and specialty flavors.
- The Candy Store: This online retailer offers a variety of conversation hearts, including classic flavors and new varieties.
Conclusion
Conversation hearts may have faced a setback with the closure of NECCO, but they are still widely available today. Whether you’re looking for a classic flavor or a new variety, there are plenty of places to find these iconic candies. So, go ahead and indulge in the sweet nostalgia of conversation hearts – your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our journey into the world of conversation hearts, it’s clear that these candies have left an indelible mark on American culture. From their humble beginnings as hub wafers to their current status as a beloved Valentine’s Day treat, conversation hearts have captured the hearts of many. So, the next time you see a conversation heart, remember the rich history and nostalgia behind this iconic candy.
What are Conversation Hearts and where did they originate?
Conversation Hearts are small, heart-shaped candies with sweet messages or phrases printed on them. They have been a popular treat during Valentine’s Day and other special occasions for over 150 years. The origins of Conversation Hearts date back to 1866 when Daniel Chase, the brother of Oliver Chase, the founder of the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO), invented a machine that could press phrases onto the candies.
The first Conversation Hearts were called “hub wafers” and were made with a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring. They quickly gained popularity, and by the early 20th century, NECCO was producing millions of Conversation Hearts every day. The candies became a staple of American culture, with their sweet messages and colorful designs making them a favorite among people of all ages.
What happened to the original manufacturer of Conversation Hearts, NECCO?
The New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) was the original manufacturer of Conversation Hearts. However, in 2018, the company announced that it would be closing its doors due to financial difficulties. The closure of NECCO led to a shortage of Conversation Hearts, and many fans of the candy were worried that they would no longer be available.
Fortunately, the Spangler Candy Company, the manufacturer of Dum Dums lollipops, acquired the rights to produce Conversation Hearts in 2019. Spangler Candy Company has continued to produce the iconic candies, ensuring that they remain available to fans around the world. Although the original manufacturer is no longer in operation, the legacy of Conversation Hearts lives on through the efforts of Spangler Candy Company.
Are Conversation Hearts still widely available?
Yes, Conversation Hearts are still widely available, despite the closure of the original manufacturer, NECCO. The Spangler Candy Company has taken over production of the candies and distributes them to retailers across the United States and around the world. Conversation Hearts can be found in most major grocery stores, pharmacies, and online retailers, particularly during the Valentine’s Day season.
In addition to traditional retail channels, Conversation Hearts are also available through online marketplaces, such as Amazon, and directly from the Spangler Candy Company website. Fans of the candy can also find a variety of Conversation Hearts products, including gift boxes, bags, and other specialty items.
Have the messages on Conversation Hearts changed over time?
Yes, the messages on Conversation Hearts have changed over time. When the candies were first introduced, the messages were simple and straightforward, with phrases like “Be Mine” and “Be True.” Over the years, the messages have evolved to reflect changing social norms and cultural values. In the 1960s and 1970s, Conversation Hearts began to feature more playful and flirtatious messages, such as “You’re a Gas” and “Groovy.”
In recent years, the Spangler Candy Company has introduced new messages that are more inclusive and diverse. For example, Conversation Hearts now feature messages in Spanish and other languages, as well as phrases that celebrate LGBTQ+ relationships and friendships. The company has also introduced a line of “Kindness Conversation Hearts” that feature messages promoting empathy and kindness.
Can I still purchase vintage or retro Conversation Hearts?
Yes, it is still possible to purchase vintage or retro Conversation Hearts. Although the original manufacturer, NECCO, is no longer in operation, many online retailers and specialty candy stores continue to sell vintage or retro Conversation Hearts. These candies often feature original packaging and messages from past decades, making them a unique and nostalgic treat for fans of the candy.
In addition to online retailers, fans of Conversation Hearts can also find vintage or retro candies at antique stores, flea markets, and other specialty shops. Some companies also offer custom or reproduction Conversation Hearts that feature retro messages and designs.
Are Conversation Hearts available in different flavors?
Yes, Conversation Hearts are available in a variety of flavors. The original flavor of Conversation Hearts is a sweet, slightly tart taste that is similar to a combination of sugar and corn syrup. However, over the years, the Spangler Candy Company has introduced a range of new flavors, including cherry, blue raspberry, and lemon.
In addition to traditional flavors, Conversation Hearts are also available in a range of specialty flavors, such as sour apple and blueberry. Some companies also offer sugar-free or low-calorie versions of Conversation Hearts, making them a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
Can I purchase Conversation Hearts in bulk or wholesale quantities?
Yes, it is possible to purchase Conversation Hearts in bulk or wholesale quantities. The Spangler Candy Company offers bulk purchasing options for businesses and individuals who want to purchase large quantities of the candies. This can be a great option for event planners, party hosts, and other individuals who want to share Conversation Hearts with a large group of people.
In addition to the Spangler Candy Company, many online retailers and wholesale candy distributors also offer bulk purchasing options for Conversation Hearts. These retailers often offer discounted prices for large orders, making it a cost-effective way to purchase the candies in bulk.