A Juicy Jujyfruit Tale

by Laurnie Wilson

Jujy-Fans

Are you a Jujyfruit fan? Chances are, you grew up eating these little fruity treats by the handful! So you probably think you know all there is to know about everyone’s favorite childhood gummy. But think again! We’re about to school you on this snack of school days past.

The origins of this candy stretch all the way back to 1920. Back then, German immigrant Henry Heidi introduced Jujyfruits and Jujubes, which rose to almost instant success as movie theater snacks! Heidi’s company, which took his name, had actually been around since 1869, but it was the Jujyfruits that finally set them apart.

Jujy-Fun

Interestingly enough, although Jujyfruits are fruity flavored and come in fruit and vegetable shapes, the colors and shapes do not correspond at all! So you may get a surprise when you put them in your mouth. But, it’s all part of the fun, don’t you think?

And speaking of fun, Jujyfruits know a thing or two about making people happy. They used to offer fun prizes that you could send away for… like a new leather belt! Not bad from a candy company, eh?

Jujy-Fame

Not only have these little sweets made people smile, but they were also featured on the classic TV show, Seinfeld! Do you remember the episode? If not, here’s a little reminder: When Elaine heard that her boyfriend was in an accident, she stopped to buy a box of Jujyfruits before going to see him in the hospital. Later, in the hospital, her boyfriend breaks up with her….all over the Jujyfruits! Now if that’s not a claim to fame, I don’t know what is.

Jujy-Family

Today, Jujyfruits are made by Farley’s & Sather. This is actually the third company to own the candy…a surprising fact, considering its long history! In fact, Jujyfruits were a family affair, produced by Heidi’s family-run company until 1995. Those family ties run deep!

So the next time you’re in the mood for some Jujyfruits, you can rest assured that you really do know all there is to know about this time-tested treat.

Sources:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jujyfruits
• https://www.candywrappermuseum.com/heide.html
• https://www.ferrarausa.com/brands/jujyfruits/
• https://www.candyblog.net/blog/item/jujyfruits_jujubes/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Opposite
• https://www.seinology.com/scripts/script-86.shtml
• https://ordinarythingssmashedandreconstituted.blogspot.com