Do you remember your childhood time eating those tiny, colourful sugar candies and enjoying your favourite movies or road trips? That sweet, sugary sentiment that blows your mind while talking about this delicious candy. Yes, You got it right. I am talking about Dots Candy. What’s more interesting about this candy is that you just can’t stop after one. If you are a true Dot’s lover, then this article is surely for you.
Though the candy looks more classic, it shares a rich history with many true followers, and its manufacturing process that blends tradition and innovation. In this article, let us explore Dot candies, how they secured their place in the candy world, and why they are still a popular choice among candy lovers.
Table of Contents
What Are Dot Candies?
In this constantly changing world of confectionery, one candy still occupies the minds of many for its simplicity and unmatched taste. Dots Candy – the all time favourite by Tootsie Roll Industry.
But what are Dot Candies? These are fruity flavoured candies made from corn syrup, refined sugar, natural and artificial flavours, modified food starch, malic acid, sodium citrate, and artificial food colourings.
The Origin Of Dot Candies: It All Started With A Crow:
Dot candies history originated with Crows, a black liquorice ancestor of Dot candies. Though in present days these liquorice Dot candies are not so much loved by candy lovers, they were the hot favourites of many when Crows were initially released in 1890s.
The Interesting Story Of Dots Candy And Its Maker
Just like other great candies, Dots Candy also shares an interesting story. Its bond with Tootsie Roll Industry started in 1972, when it gained its rights from Mason Candy Company, the initial owner who launched Dots in 1945. This acquisition led to the beginning of a new phase of Dot’s Candy, remarking its new strength and expanding its market reach not only in North America but also across other countries.
Now let us see how Dots Candies evolved
Evolution Of Dot Candy: From Mason Age To Present Time:
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Origin Of Dot Candy:
Dot candies were initially launched as Mason Dots in 1945. It gained its popularity in America as a treat for relaxation from the war. Even while it was a product of Mason Company, its growth increased immensely with the takeover of the company by Tootsie Roll Industries in the 1970s. The annual production of Dots is more than four billion from its Chicago plant alone, marking the evidence of its growing popularity.
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Tootsie Roll Industries: A Heritage Of Confectionary Excellence:
Tootsie Roll Industries has its roots dating back to 1896 by the founder, Leo Hirshfield. He laid the foundation for the company’s growth as one of the leading confectionery giants of the world. This showcases the company’s legacy not only as the candy manufacturer but also as a steward of candy heritage.
Consumer Perception:
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Are Dots Really Gumdrops:
There is often a discussion among the candy lovers whether Dots are really Gumdrops!? Though both have the same chewy texture, gumdrops have sugar coating and Dots don’t. Dots represent their own category of candies for its unique texture, creating a special niche that differentiate them from other candies.
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Consumer Testimonials And Nostalgia:
Since years, Dots have gained a true following, creating nostalgia from various generations. It comes in various flavours including strawberry, lime, lemon, orange, and cherry, taking people back to their childhood memories enjoying their movie time or festive holidays with these Dots.
The Manufacturing Of Dots:
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Ingredients And Production:
Though Dots look simple, their preparation includes a proper and delicate blend of its ingredients including corn syrup, sugar, and a starch mixture, giving it a special chewiness without sugar dusting. By proper adaptation of the method and ingredients, its smooth finish has successfully become a trademark of the candy.
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Tootsie’s Production Facilities: Innovation Meets Tradition:
At Tootsie Roll Industry’s Chicago plant, the innovation blends with tradition. The use of latest technologies ensures the quality and consistency while preserving its originality that is being loved by its fans. For this careful approach, Dots have achieved mass appeal and critical acclaim, while retaining its sweet promise.
Market Production And Sales:
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Tootsie Roll’s Strategic Plans:
Scale Of Production:
Tootsie Roll Industries holds a remarkable share in the Global Candy Industry. The company’s consistent growth involves the Dots as a main part of the portfolio ensures to meet the increasing demands. The annual production of about four billion Dots shows their strength and popularity in retail marketing.
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Sales Trends And Consumer Engagement:
With the introduction of seasonal sales such as Halloween, Valentine’s Day, or movie nights, Tootsie Roll Industries strengthens Dots Candies remarkable market presence. With these campaigns, the company achieved its brand visibility and consumer engagement, ensuring Dots as a staple sweet in every household in America and across.
Are Dots Vegans And Cruelty Free?
Dots are not actually vegan candies as they contain refined sugar. While sugar is a plant based ingredient, the US sugar industries add bone char to refine sugar to get the white colour. Hence unless it is mentioned there is no bone char used, Dot’s cannot be considered as vegan.
Dots are not even cruelty-free. Though they are not tested on any animals, these candies have added colours that are frequently tested on animals.
Different Types Of Dot Candies:
- Sour Dots
- Halloween Dots
- Tropical Dots
- Valentine’s Dots
- Christmas Dots
- Easter Dots
- Yogurt Dots
Vegan Alternatives To Dots:
- Cocomels Coconut Milk Caramels
- YumEarth Organic Fruit Flavored Giggles
- Candy Kittens Tropical Mango
- Back To Nature Vegan Sour Gummy Bears
- Pink Panda Sour & Chewy Astro Blasters
Final Thoughts:
When we look back on the colourful journey of Dots Candy, we come across a story that is filled with flexibility, fan’s affection, and innovative ideas. From Mason Company’s first launch to successful growth by Tootsie Roll Industries, Dots share a rich history and are not just a sugar treat. They are the symbol of tradition, creativity, and sweetness that promises to serve the candy lovers for years.
What are your favorite memories of eating Dot candies?
Share Your Stories In The Comment Box.
Shusree Mukherjee