Unzipping a Squirrely Candy

by Laurnie Wilson

Unzipping the Zipper

Around here, we hear a lot of strange candy names. There’s something about sweets that give people the craziest ideas when they have to name them. We’ve certainly heard our fair share. But, even we have to stop for a minute when we hear the name Squirrel Nut Zippers. You probably can’t say that name without cracking a smile yourself. But do you know the history behind this unusual little snack? Read on to find out!

As with many of the best candies, Squirrel Nut Zippers trace their roots all the way back to the early 20^th century: 1926 to be exact. But the origins of the Squirrel Brand go back even further!  In fact, the Austin T. Merrill Company created the Squirrel Brand of treats way back in 1890! The Squirrel Nut Caramel was actually the first Squirrel Nut creation, consisting of chocolate-flavored caramel and peanuts. The Squirrel Nut Zipper, made of a vanilla-flavored caramel and peanuts, was made afterwards to complement the original chocolate variety.

Unzipping the Name

So now we know why it was made. But why does it have that strange sounding name? The answer, my friends, is just as exciting as you might have hoped. Apparently, during the Prohibition Era, there was a drink called the Nut Zipper that consisted of tequila, Grand Marnier, and cream. So, naturally, this candy was named after the highly popular (read: illegal!) drink!

And although there is no outright explanation as to where the “squirrel” part came from, it’s safe to assume that it derives from the fact that the candy is made with peanuts. How about that for a nutty naming history, eh?

A Modern Twist

In the 1990’s, a retro swing band went by the name of Squirrel Nut Zippers and passed out this beloved candy during their performances! Now that’s the kind of performance I want to go to!  

These days, though, this peanutty, caramel-y chew is made by NECCO. It’s still wrapped in wax paper, just as it always was, and can still be found in bulk candy bins…or here, of course!

And you can rest assured, that although many decades have gone by since its creation, this is one treat that tastes just as good as it always has.

Sources:

• https://www.necco.com/Candy/Squirrel-Nut-Zippers/History.aspx
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squirrel_nut_caramel
• https://www.candyblog.net/blog/item/squirrel_nut_zippers
• https://www.drinkswap.com/zipper.htm#.VAUk8EuA86I
• https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3527/3936761136_62e1f27ba8.jpg
• https://etsyvintagemarketteam.blogspot.com/2011/10/vintage-candy-your-retro-home-by.html