Mars Bars are notably absent from American candy aisles—a curious fact, given their global popularity and that they are one of the most requested items on CandyFavorites.
The original Mars Bar, once offered in the United States, featured nougat, eventually - the exact date as to when this ingredient was added remains unknown - caramel, and roasted almonds coated in milk chocolate.
The international version, especially popular in the U.K., doesn't have almonds. It is a candy bar with three ingredients: nougat and caramel beneath a milk chocolate shell, making it remarkably similar to a Milky Way Bar.
The Disappearance and Reinvention
In 2002, Mars, Inc. discontinued the Mars Bar in the United States due to trademark issues and, surprisingly, a lack of sales. ( Editor's Note - It is probably one of the most requested items on our website)
To fill the void, they introduced Snickers Almond, which offers the same ingredients as the discontinued Mars Bar, which was discontinued in 2002, but in different packaging.
It also, ironically or perhaps not, pays tribute to the hallowed Snickers Bar, which happens to be the best-selling candy bar in the world backed by a gigantic advertising budget!
There is something to be said about tried and true brand recognition...
This is all well and good, unless you're a die-hard candy lover in the United States who wants a Mars Bar in its original wrapper.
You could find an outdated box on eBay, but we wouldn't recommend this. Alternatively, you may prefer an international version that excludes almonds; in that case, the easiest route would be to enjoy a Milky Way Bar.
Confused yet? If not, keep reading...
This Snickers Almond would be the equivalent of the discontinued American Mars Bar
Seeking the Original Taste
The Snickers Almond Bar offers a close approximation for those yearning for the classic American Mars Bar experience.
Alternatively, the international Mars Bar can be found through specialty importers or online retailers, allowing American consumers to indulge in the original recipe or one could devote a bit less energy and pretend to be eating an international Mars Bar while enjoying a Milky Way Bar.
This is the wrapper found on "International" Mars Bars is equivalent to an American Milky Way Bar.
Out Of This World Sweet Trivia
- The Mars Bar was first made in 1932 in England by Forrest Mars Sr., making it an essential part of English confectionery culture.
- Much like Hershey's Bars in the United States, Mars Bars were included in rations for British soldiers during World War II and were graciously shared with German prisoners of war.
- The Mars Bar has a place in popular culture as it was infamously mentioned during the height of the Rolling Stones' fame!
- The U.S. Mars Bar was first introduced in 1932 and was discontinued 70 years later.
- The American Mars Bar had Almonds, but the International Version does not.
- The international Mars Bar is sold in over 70 countries but not in the United States.
Even world-famous rock stars have a taste for a delicious candy bar!
