What Were the Original M&M’s Colors? A Blast from the Past

Remember those colorful candies that have graced our snack bowls and movie theaters for decades? 🍫 M&M’s, the iconic chocolate treat, have become practically synonymous with fun and indulgence. But have you ever wondered what the first M&M’s looked like? Were they always the vibrant, multi-hued candies we know and love today? 🤔

Image: originofm.bandcamp.com

We’re about to take a trip down memory lane, delving into the origins of M&M’s and uncovering the colors that first captured the world’s taste buds. Get ready to rediscover a classic and learn a few fun facts you might not have known.

The Story Behind the Colors

M&M’s, as we know them, wouldn’t exist without the vision and ingenuity of Forrest Mars Sr. – the mastermind behind the Mars candy empire. In 1930, he was traveling through Spain, where he noticed soldiers enjoying chocolate candies coated in a hard shell. 🇪🇸 He saw a way to create a similar candy for the American market, one that would withstand the harsh conditions of war and stay cleaner than traditional chocolate.

The first M&M’s were created in 1941, and unlike today’s vibrant selection, they came in just two colors:

• Brown: This was the original color, reflecting the rich, dark chocolate inside.
• Red: This color was added shortly after, perhaps to offer a bit of vibrancy alongside the brown.

Interestingly, that initial red was actually made with a shade of crimson that, as it turned out, contained red dye No. 2. This particular dye was later found to be potentially carcinogenic and was banned by the FDA in 1976. 🚫

But don’t worry! The M&M’s you enjoy today are completely safe thanks to a switch to alternative red dyes.

A Rainbow of Change: New Colors Arrive

The 1950s saw M&M’s begin to blossom into the multi-colored candies we know today. The addition of yellow in 1954 brought a burst of optimism and sunshine to the candy selection. ☀️

Then, in 1960, green was added, instantly becoming a favorite color for many. 🍀 It seems those early color choices were a careful mix of classic and playful, setting the stage for the vibrant explosion of colors to come.

The M&M’s “Mega-Color” Boom

The 1970s saw a true color revolution! Blue joined the party in 1976, bringing a cool, sophisticated touch to the M&M’s lineup. 💙 And in 1988, orange entered the scene, adding a warm and cheerful note. 🧡

These new colors were part of a conscious effort to appeal to a wider range of tastes and preferences. But did you know that orange wasn’t always orange? 🍊

Initially, it was called “tangerine” and was a bright, almost neon, shade. The color was eventually toned down to the orange we know today.

Image: www.gas-chamber.net

The Rise of a Fan Favorite: Purple M&M’s

In the 1990s, M&M’s took a bold leap with the introduction of purple in 1995. 🍇 This color was a direct response to consumer demand, a testament to the power of fan feedback. Purple M&M’s became an instant hit, adding a touch of whimsy and mystery to the candy mix.

The addition of purple also marked a shift in how M&M’s approached color. The brand realized that color could be more than just a visual element; it could be a source of personality and intrigue.

Beyond the Colors: The M&M’s Story Continues

Today, M&M’s offers an impressive array of colors, including a special edition pink that made its debut in 2017. 💖

Each color has a distinct personality and even an individual name, adding another layer of fun to the brand.

But the core message remains the same: M&M’s are about celebrating diversity, fun, and the joy of sharing colorful treats. Each bite holds a tiny piece of history, a reminder of how far the candy has come since its simple beginnings.

What Were The Original M&M Colors

Take a Bite of History: What To Do Now

Now that you know the fascinating story behind M&M’s colors, why not give your favorite color a closer look? Think about what it represents to you, or even start a discussion on your favorite color.

Maybe you’ll discover a new color you’d never noticed before! With so many unique shades and flavors to explore, the M&M’s rainbow offers something for everyone. Just remember, don’t be afraid to indulge in a little color and enjoy the sweetness of history with every bite. 😊