The Surprising History and Etymology of Smarties

Have you ever wondered why Smarties are not the same as MMs, despite looking similar? Smarties and MMs are both beloved candies, but they have distinct histories, production methods, and brand stories. Let's explore the fascinating journey of why Smarties got their name and the reasons why they remain distinguishable from MMs.

The Origin and Background

Smarties, a sweet-filled chocolate confection, was first introduced to the world in the late 1930s by the British candy company Mackintosh and Co. The brand has since become a recognizable global treat, known for its distinctive color-shifting effect when bitten. On the other hand, MMs were created by Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie and introduced in the United States in 1941 by the Mars Confectionery Company.

Smarties: A British Classic

Smarties are primarily associated with British candy culture and are manufactured by Nestlé in Europe. The company, known for its diverse portfolio of chocolates and confections, has been refining this candy for over eight decades. The candy consists of small, bite-sized chocolate tubes filled with a smooth, brightly colored fondant.

The Color-Shift Phenomenon

One of the most recognizable features of Smarties is their color-shifting effect. When you bite into a Smartie, the bright outer shell hardens while the inner fondant melts slightly, creating a mesmerizing color change that adds to the candy's visual appeal. This phenomenon has made Smarties a popular choice for children and adults alike, promising a fun, playful experience with each bite.

MMs: An American Icon

In contrast, MMs stands as a quintessential American candy, known for its durability and ease of consumption. The candies are small, hard-coated chocolates with a smooth interior and colorful, protective outer shell. They are produced and sold worldwide by Mars Inc., making them a global giant in the confectionery market.

The Retail and Production Differences

While both Smarties and MMs are popular treats, they differ significantly in their production methods and flavors. Smarties are typically available in a wide range of candy flavors, both chocolate and non-chocolate, reflecting the global taste preferences of Nestlé's consumers.

MMs, on the other hand, are predominantly chocolate-covered with a variety of colorful coatings, often with distinct flavor combinations like peanut, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. The production processes for these two candies are also quite different, with Smarties being more delicate.

Copyright and Brand Ownership

Despite their visual similarities, Smarties and MMs are considered separate brands with distinct intellectual property rights. The different production processes, flavors, and manufacturers imply that they are, indeed, different products. This distinction is crucial to protect the brand identities and to ensure that consumers can associate the candies with their respective manufacturers.

Marketing and Consumer Perception

The marketing strategies for Smarties and MMs also emphasize their unique qualities. While both candies are marketed as small, colorful, and fun, the branding and marketing campaigns are tailored to their specific target markets. Smarties are often positioned as a fun, colorful, and affordable treat, appealing to a wide range of customers, while MMs are marketed as a versatile and durable snack for various occasions.

Conclusion

Smarties and MMs, although sharing a common visual identity and popularity, are intrinsically different candies that cater to diverse consumers. The differences in their production processes, brand ownership, and market positioning underscore the importance of recognizing and celebrating these distinctions. Whether you're a fan of the unique color-shifting effect of Smarties or the durability of MMs, both candies have rich histories and stories that contribute to the enchanting world of confectionery.

Keywords: Smarties, MMs, confectionery, brand ownership, candy history