M m s actually stands for mars murrie s the last names of the candy s founders

M&M’s: The Sweet Success Story of Mars & Murrie’s

When it comes to iconic candies, few can rival the popularity of M&M’s. These bite-sized chocolate treats have been a staple of candy jars, snacks, and movie nights for generations. But have you ever wondered what the name “M&M’s” actually stands for? Well, get ready to uncover the sweet history behind those two little letters.

The Origins of M&M’s

M&M’s were created by Forrest Mars, Sr., the son of Frank C. Mars, the founder of the Mars candy company. In the late 1930s, Forrest Mars, Sr. saw soldiers during the Spanish Civil War eating chocolate pellets coated with a hard shell to prevent melting. Inspired by this ingenious creation, Mars Sr. returned to the United States with the idea of developing a candy that would withstand the summer heat.

To bring his vision to life, Mars Sr. joined forces with Bruce Murrie, the son of William Murrie, the then-president of the Hershey Chocolate Company. Together, they formed a partnership and began producing what would soon become one of the most beloved candies in the world.

M&M’s: The Perfect Partnership

The combination of Mars’ innovative thinking and Murrie’s knowledge of the chocolate industry proved to be a winning formula. They crafted a delicious candy with a colorful, candy-coated shell that protected the chocolate filling from melting in your hands.

But why are they called M&M’s? Well, the name is an acronym that stands for “Mars & Murrie’s,” incorporating the last names of the candy’s founders. This simple yet effective name not only paid homage to the collaboration that birthed the candy but also created a brand identity that has stood the test of time.

From Popularity to Cult Status

Since its introduction, M&M’s have captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. In fact, they became so popular that during World War II, they were exclusively sold to the military as part of soldier rations, thanks to their convenient packaging and long shelf life.

Their popularity exploded even further in 1954, when M&M’s received its iconic “melts in your mouth, not in your hands” slogan. This jingle and the candy’s reputation for being mess-free elevated M&M’s to cult status, transforming them into an essential treat for all occasions.

Timeless Innovation and Variety

One reason for M&M’s continued success is their commitment to innovation and introducing new flavors and variants. Over the years, the brand has expanded its range to include peanut, peanut butter, crispy, almond, pretzel-filled, caramel-filled, and many more exciting flavors. This commitment to providing variety ensures that there is an M&M’s flavor for everyone to enjoy.

The Legacy Lives On

Today, M&M’s remains an incredibly popular candy, beloved by people of all ages. The candy’s distinct colors, smooth chocolate, and vibrant personality continue to make it an irresistible treat.

So, the next time you pop a handful of these colorful candies into your mouth, remember that M&M’s isn’t just a random assortment of letters. It’s a homage to the two individuals who saw the potential in a tiny candy coated in a hard shell, and together they created a candy empire that has earned a special place in the hearts of millions.

Sources:

• Mental Floss: 119 Amazing Facts for National Trivia Day