The History of Satellite Wafers (AKA Flying Saucers)

Satellite Wafers were invented in Belgium in the 1950s by – of all things! – a communion wafer maker. His sales were down for unknown reasons, and he need ed to do something new and excited with his product. So, he put two wafers together, filled them with nonpareils (the little sprinkles on ice cream and chocolates) and created – a candy shaped like a “satellite” aka flying saucer.

Why Make Flying Saucer Candy?

The 1950s, when Satellite Wafers were invented, were significant for many things – beatniks, bobby socks, the Cold War and with it…the space age. The Cold War was scary, on one hand. Kids had to practice dropping under their seats at school should they need to hide in the event of a nuclear attack (an unlikely solution) and UFO sightings and reported kidnappings were on the rise. On the other hand, as usually happens, candy was on the rescue, providing fun renditions of serious matters…with all the necessary bang and pop! Think: Pop Rocks, made in the ’50s by a scientist, Astro Pops, made in the early 60s by two former NASA rocket scientists, plus fizzy candies such as Zotz, and more! Fun, tasty, and uplifting! Maybe that’s why candy sells more during hard times than other luxury items.

What is the Difference Between Flying Saucers and Satellite Wafers?

Same candy more or less but different name, different company. Satellite Wafers were the first.

What Do Satellite Wafers Taste Like?

Perhaps the most difficult question to address is the flavor of Satellite Wafers. Because these ever-popular candies aren’t actually about flavor - they’re about TEXTURE. Imagine a soft, melt-in-your-mouth satin yielding to tiny, sweet candy morsels with satisfying crunch. Or, for that matter, should you have had one, imagine communion wafers that, in mere mortal moments, become candy. OR, even better, experience what it’s like to be living during the Cold War…with all the FUN and none of the worry.

AS FOR FLAVOR: they’re light and sugary with a soft undertone of fruit. The nonpareils inside are pure sugar, without being cloying.

Are Satellite Wafers Still Popular?

In the U.S. Satellite Wafers are considered a popular retro candy albeit hard-to-find. Customers at our store in Harpers Ferry, WV are delighted to find them, and we do sell Satellite Wafers galore on our Web site, as well. In England, as well as Belgium and Ireland, their popularity is among the top 12 favorites.

Are Satellite Wafers good for you?

Remember: Satellite Wafers are about fun. And fun makes you feel good. Right? As for nutrition…Here goes:

Flying Saucer Candy Nutritional Facts

Flying Saucers Candy. Flying Saucers Candy, 1 saucer. Calories: 0 •Carbs: 1g •Fat: 0g •Protein: 0g. Flying saucers, 47 grams. Calories: 165 •Carbs: 44g •Fat: 0g •Protein: 0g. 165.