A Laffy History

by Laurnie Wilson

Laffy Taffy’s Recent Rise

Often, we delve into deep histories about candies that have been around for over a century. It's true! There are so many fantastic treats out there that have been pleasing palates for a very long time. But just because a lot of candies are oldies and goodies, doesn’t mean we should ignore the younger generation of confections! As the rhyme goes, “Make new friends, but keep the old.” And that’s exactly how we feel about discovering and appreciating new candies!

So, if you’re a fan of some of the newer candy kids on the block, how much do you know about the history of Laffy Taffy? If your knowledge is limited, then you’ve come to the right place! ‘Cause we’re about to give you the low down on one of the happiest candies around.

Although taffy has existed for generations, Laffy Taffy didn’t come into being until the 1970’s. In those days, the candies were sold as “Breich’s Caramels,” with the flavor of the taffy printed on each label. However, the company later changed the name to “Breich’s Laffy Taffy,” a name that stuck, just like the candy itself.

Are You Laffy Yet?

What’s ingenious about the name, “Laffy Taffy” is that it encompasses both the texture of the sugary sweet and the company’s commitment to entertainment. Each piece of taffy is individually wrapped and inside each wrapper is a joke: hence, the “laffy” nature of this taffy.  Since the beginning, these jokes have been written and sent in by children. So, you’ll find all sorts of silly puns wrapped around your favorite candy!

 Laffy Taffy Times

Although originally thick and square in shape, today, Laffy Taffy are thinner and more rectangular. They come in Banana, Grape, Strawberry, Sour Apple, Chocolate Mousse, Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, and Cherry flavors. So you’re sure to find a flavor, and a joke, that tickles your fancy and has you giggling all the way back to the store to buy more.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laffy_Taffy
https://lagunaalkaline.hubpages.com/hub/Sweet-History-Laffy-Taffy

Image Sources:

https://www.candyfavorites.com/laffy-taffy-assorted
https://www.candyfavorites.com/laffy-taffy-assorted-jar
https://danalexanderdizmentia.blogspot.com/2009/12/laffy-taffy-bad-boy-banana-biker.html