Candy and Pop Culture: A Look at the 70s and 80s
Candy and pop culture have always been closely linked, especially during the 70s and 80s, a time when both industries experienced massive transformations. The vibrant and energetic spirit of these decades was reflected in the candy aisle, where colorful wrappers and bold flavors captured the attention of consumers. Pop culture played a significant role in shaping the candy market, as iconic movies, TV shows, and music influenced which sweets became favorites.
For example, candy bars like Reese's Pieces gained popularity due to their appearance in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, while TV commercials for products like M&M's and Snickers became cultural staples. The 70s and 80s were a time when candy was not just a treat, but a symbol of a carefree, exciting era that shaped the tastes and nostalgia of generations to come.
Candy's Role in Shaping Nostalgic Trends
In the 70s and 80s, candy wasn’t just a sweet treat; it was deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the era, becoming a key player in nostalgic trends. Whether it was kids rushing to the store to buy their favorite candy after school or candy bars appearing in popular TV shows and movies, these sweets became symbols of the times. Candy was tied to memories of road trips, Halloween nights, and Saturday mornings in front of the TV.
As the decades passed, people began to reminisce about these childhood experiences, and candy served as a bridge to the past. This collective memory of iconic candies has kept them alive in modern times, making them a central part of pop culture discussions. For many, these sweets were more than just sugar—they were a part of growing up, and they continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy.
Iconic Sweets That Defined the Decade
The 70s and 80s were a golden age for candy, with certain iconic sweets defining the era. The Snickers bar, with its perfect combination of chocolate, peanuts, and caramel, became a staple. The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup gained even more fame, solidifying its place in American candy history. The 80s saw the arrival of candies like Nerds, a quirky, colorful candy that appealed to kids' love for variety. The Pop Rocks craze hit in the late 70s, promising an explosive experience with each bite, and it became a sensation.
Meanwhile, bubble gum brands like Hubba Bubba and Big League Chew became popular among school kids, linking candy with sports culture. These candies weren’t just about taste; they represented the fun and carefree spirit of the times. The distinctive flavors and packaging of these sweets have become iconic symbols of a generation, forever tied to the era.
The Influence of TV and Movies on Candy Popularity
The 70s and 80s were the golden era of television and film, and candy played a major role in these cultural moments. TV commercials were at the forefront of candy marketing, with colorful, catchy jingles that made sweets unforgettable. Iconic candies like M&Ms, Kit Kat, and Twix were seen on television screens, and their popularity skyrocketed as they became symbols of the carefree fun these decades represented. Movies like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial helped propel Reese’s Pieces into the spotlight, proving how film and candy culture could intersect.
Characters in TV shows and movies were frequently shown indulging in candy, creating a lasting impression on young audiences. As the media landscape evolved, so did candy’s role in shaping consumer behavior. Pop culture’s portrayal of candy made these treats not just food, but a reflection of the entertainment, style, and humor of the times.
Candy Commercials and Their Impact on Kids
Candy commercials in the 70s and 80s were a game-changer in advertising. With their catchy jingles, vibrant colors, and playful characters, these ads created an emotional connection with children. One of the most notable examples was the M&M’s commercials, where the animated M&Ms—Red, Yellow, and Green—captivated kids’ imaginations and created a lasting connection between the candy and fun. Similarly, the Twix commercials, with their “left or right” dynamic, introduced a humorous competition between two candy bars.
These commercials became more than just advertisements; they were moments of entertainment that children looked forward to. The clever marketing strategies used during this period shaped a generation’s love for candy and helped fuel the demand for certain brands. By connecting sweets with enjoyable moments and colorful personalities, candy commercials became an essential part of childhood in the 70s and 80s.
How Candy Became a Symbol of Rebellion and Fun
In the 70s and 80s, candy became more than just a treat—it became a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and fun. With the rise of counterculture movements in the 60s and 70s, youth culture was looking for ways to break away from traditional norms. Candy, with its carefree appeal and ability to provide instant gratification, became a metaphor for youth defiance. The introduction of brightly colored, novelty candies, like Pop Rocks or Candy Cigarettes, captured the spirit of rebellion and nonconformity.
Candy became an affordable luxury that allowed people to indulge in simple pleasures. The sugary indulgence was a way to escape from the pressures of adulthood, even if only for a moment. This rebellious spirit, tied to candy, helped define the 70s and 80s as a time of self-expression, joy, and pushing boundaries.
Sweet Treats in Music and Celebrity Culture
Candy’s presence in the music and celebrity world of the 70s and 80s further amplified its pop culture significance. Pop stars like Michael Jackson and Madonna often referenced candy in their music or public personas, creating an even deeper connection between sweets and the broader entertainment landscape. For instance, the Sugarhill Gang and the famous hit “Rapper’s Delight” brought candy and sugary treats into hip hop culture, adding to the idea of candy as an expression of fun.
Celebrities were often seen munching on candy during performances, music videos, and interviews, making these treats synonymous with fame and glamor. This influence led to candy being more than just food—it became part of an aspirational lifestyle, a part of the dream that fans tried to emulate. This connection between candy, music, and celebrity created a cultural cycle that keeps the legacy of these sweets alive today.
The Evolution of Candy Packaging and Design
Candy packaging in the 70s and 80s was a form of art in itself, with brands investing heavily in design to capture attention. Bright, bold colors and eye-catching graphics were the norm, as companies worked to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. The Twix bar, for example, was packaged in sleek, gold wrappers that evoked a sense of sophistication. Meanwhile, Nerds came in quirky, miniature boxes, with distinct colors representing different flavors.
The evolution of candy packaging during this time helped set trends in design, often making the packaging itself as memorable as the candy inside. Collectors and candy enthusiasts still covet vintage packaging from these decades. As candy companies became more innovative with their designs, they helped create a deeper emotional connection between consumers and the product. Today, retro candy packaging continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia for the 70s and 80s.
Conclusion
Candy has played a unique role in shaping the pop culture of the 70s and 80s, with its bright packaging, iconic flavors, and deep connection to media, music, and nostalgia. From the rebellious spirit to the fun and carefree times, candy has remained a symbol of joy for multiple generations. Whether it’s the lasting influence of commercials, the presence of candy in our favorite shows and movies, or the playful designs that defined the era, candy’s mark on pop culture is undeniable.
At True Treats Candy, we celebrate the rich history of candy and its connection to the past. If you're craving a sweet taste of nostalgia, stop by our shop at 144 High St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. We offer a variety of classic treats from these iconic decades, so come visit us and relive the flavors of the 70s and 80s today!
