The sticky, sugary history of Peeps

As Easter approaches, the neon-sugar-coated marshmallows known as Peeps emerge as a staple in many American households. These brightly colored treats, shaped like baby chicks, are a quintessential symbol of the season. However, the history of Peeps is not as straightforward as their sugary appeal might suggest.

In their traditional form, Peeps are made of soft marshmallow rolled in colored sugar, with eyes crafted from edible wax. Typically sold in packs of five conjoined marshmallows, one serving of Peeps contains 140 calories, no fat, and an impressive 34 grams of sugar. This high sugar content is unsurprising, given that the primary ingredients are sugar and corn syrup, along with gelatin, which makes them incompatible with vegan diets.

Peeps are manufactured by the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based Just Born candy company, which was founded in 1910 by a Russian immigrant named Sam Born. In addition to Peeps, Just Born also produces other popular candies such as Mike & Ikes and Hot Tamales. Sam Born's contributions to the confectionery world extend beyond Peeps. He is credited with inventing machines for producing chocolate sprinkles and the type of chocolate sauce that hardens into a crunchy shell when applied to ice cream. He also developed a device for inserting sticks into lollipops, a crucial innovation for the lollipop industry.

The origins of Peeps can be traced back to 1953 when Just Born acquired the Rodda candy company, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Rodda produced jelly beans and a line of handmade, chick-shaped marshmallows. Sam Born's son, Bob Born, played a pivotal role in transforming these handmade marshmallows into the mass-produced Peeps we know today. By mechanizing the marshmallow creation process, Bob significantly reduced the time required to produce the treats, paving the way for their widespread popularity.

The initial Peeps marshmallows were made using a process that involved boiling sugar and corn syrup, then whipping the mixture until it reached the desired consistency. This handcrafted method resulted in marshmallows with a slightly irregular texture, which some consider to be part of their charm. As the demand for Peeps grew, Just Born continued to refine the production process, eventually settling on a method that produced marshmallows with a more uniform texture.

Throughout the years, Peeps have evolved from simple marshmallows to include a variety of flavors and shapes, catering to different tastes and preferences. Today, they are available in numerous colors, including the classic yellow, as well as seasonal and limited edition designs. Peeps have also branched out into other product lines, such as candied nuts, chocolates, and even beverages.

Despite their sugary nature and high calorie content, Peeps remain a beloved Easter tradition for many. Their bright colors and whimsical shapes evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy, making them a popular choice for both children and adults alike. The sticky, sugary history of Peeps is a testament to the enduring appeal of these quirky confections, which continue to bring a touch of springtime magic to homes across America during the Easter season.