Craving something sweet? Jump to my favorite kiwi candies!
Candy, with its endless variety of flavors, has the power to transport us to different worlds through taste and aroma. Among the diverse array of candy flavors, the exotic and tangy taste of kiwi has carved a unique niche. The history of kiwi-flavored candy is a fascinating story of innovation, culinary exploration, and the quest for novel taste experiences. Let's embark on a journey through time to explore the captivating history of kiwi-flavored candy, from its humble beginnings to its contemporary popularity. Here we go!
Before diving into the history of kiwi-flavored candy, it's essential to understand the fruit itself. The kiwifruit, also known as the Chinese gooseberry, is native to China, where it has been cultivated for centuries. It made its way to New Zealand in the early 20th century, where it was cultivated and later introduced to the world. The fruit's vibrant green flesh speckled with tiny black seeds and its sweet-tart flavor quickly gained popularity.
The emergence of kiwi-flavored candy can be attributed to the increasing global interest in exotic fruits during the 20th century. As international trade expanded and culinary horizons broadened, the demand for unique and adventurous flavors grew. Kiwifruit, with its striking appearance and bold flavor, was a natural candidate for inclusion in the world of candy.
The earliest recorded instance of kiwi-flavored candy can be traced to the 1970s when New Zealand-based confectioners began experimenting with kiwi as a flavoring agent. The sweet and tangy profile of the fruit made it a compelling choice for candy makers looking to offer something new and exciting to their customers. These early kiwi candies were primarily found in New Zealand and Australia, where the fruit was more readily available.
The 1980s marked a turning point for kiwi-flavored candy as its popularity began to spread beyond Australasia. A notable milestone during this time was the introduction of kiwi-flavored taffy. This chewy, fruity candy allowed confectioners to capture the essence of kiwi while delivering a delightful texture and a burst of flavor. Kiwi taffy quickly gained a following, and its bright green color became synonymous with the fruit.
Simultaneously, kiwi-flavored gummy candies began to emerge. These gummies, often shaped like kiwifruits or slices, offered a more playful and chewy experience for candy lovers. The unique combination of texture and flavor made kiwi gummies a hit among children and adults alike.
As kiwi-flavored candy continued to gain popularity, it began to find its place in various aspects of candy culture. One of the most iconic representations of kiwi-flavored candy is the kiwi jellybean. Jellybeans, known for their diverse flavors, added kiwi to their repertoire, offering a tangy and tropical option to candy enthusiasts. The vibrant green color of kiwi jellybeans added visual appeal to candy dishes and Easter baskets.
Kiwi-flavored hard candies also became a staple in candy shops and confectionery stores. These candies, often infused with natural kiwi extracts, provided a longer-lasting kiwi flavor experience. The combination of sweetness and tartness made them an excellent choice for those who preferred a slower, more indulgent candy experience.
In the contemporary candy landscape, kiwi-flavored candy continues to thrive. Its presence can be seen in a wide range of candy forms, from kiwi-flavored lollipops to kiwi-infused chocolate bars. Candy makers have embraced kiwi as a flavor that complements other fruits, such as strawberry-kiwi or kiwi-melon blends, offering unique and refreshing taste combinations.
One notable trend in modern kiwi-flavored candy is the focus on natural ingredients and flavor authenticity. With the growing demand for natural and organic products, candy manufacturers are using real kiwi puree or juice to enhance the flavor of their candies. This commitment to authenticity ensures that the taste of kiwi in candy remains true to the fruit's essence.
Kiwi-flavored candy, with its bold and tropical taste, has made its mark on popular culture. Its vibrant green color and distinctive flavor evoke a sense of adventure and excitement. Kiwi-flavored food sometimes appears in literature, film, and television as a symbol of novelty and creativity.
Kiwi-flavored candy is also celebrated during festive occasions and holidays. Its green color makes it a popular choice for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and kiwi-flavored treats are often incorporated into green-themed desserts and candy displays.
The history of kiwi-flavored candy is a delightful journey that reflects the evolution of taste preferences, culinary exploration, and the desire for novel flavor experiences. From its origins in New Zealand and Australia to its global popularity today, kiwi-flavored candy has captured the hearts and palates of candy enthusiasts around the world. Its vibrant color, bold flavor, and versatility make it a beloved choice in the ever-expanding world of candy. As we savor a piece of kiwi-flavored candy, we can appreciate the rich history and cultural significance that have made this tangy and tropical flavor a cherished favorite—a symbol of adventure and sweet delight.
Kiwi isn't often the sole flavor in kiwi-flavored candies, but that's ok — its tangy sweetness complements chocolate and strawberry remarkably well. When balanced with just the right texture and sweetness, kiwi flavor can really shine on its own! Here are some of my favorite kiwi-flavored candies:
• Kiwi Hi-Chew Taffy (Amazon): kiwi is one of those tangy-yet-light flavors that just works so well with the smooth and chewy texture of Hi-Chew taffy. I also love the speckled appearance of this candy, which really stands out from the solid pastel colors of most other Hi-Chew flavors!
• Chocolate Covered Kiwi Balls (Amazon): I wasn't sure about the combination of kiwi and chocolate at first, but this candy strikes the perfect balance of smooth chocolate and tangy kiwi flavor.
• Kiwifruit Gummy Candy by Kasugai (Amazon): a jucier kiwi flavor than Hi-Chews, this is the best kiwi gummy I've tried so far!
• Strawberry Kiwi Dum-Dums Lollipops (Amazon): ok, I'm not usually a fan of Dum-Dums, but I really like this lighter take on the all-too-often cloying strawberry-kiwi flavor combination.
• Tropical Fruit Flavor Mix Jelly Belly Jelly Beans (Amazon): at the time of this writing, kiwi Jelly Bellies were "unavailable" on Jelly Belly's website and only available in 10 pound quantities elsewhere — I didn't want to recommend a product that might be discontinued, but you can enjoy kiwi-flavored Jelly Bellies in the Jelly Belly Tropical Mix linked here!