M&M's Mystery Solved: What Does the "MM" Stand For?
The iconic, colorful candies we all know and love, M&M's, have been a staple treat for generations. But have you ever stopped to wonder what the "MM" actually stands for? This week, we're diving into the sweet history to uncover the secret behind those two little letters. Prepare to have your candy knowledge expanded! This information is perfect for candy lovers of all ages, curious minds, and trivia enthusiasts.
The Origins of M&M's: What Does the MM Stand For?
The story begins in the late 1930s. Forrest Mars Sr., the son of Mars, Incorporated founder Frank C. Mars, saw soldiers in the Spanish Civil War eating chocolate pellets covered in a sugary coating. This coating prevented the chocolate from melting in the heat. Inspired, Mars envisioned a similar product for the American market.
Partnering Up: What Does the MM Stand For?
Mars needed help to bring his vision to life. He partnered with Bruce Murrie, the son of Hershey Chocolate's president, William Murrie. Hershey was a major chocolate supplier at the time, and the partnership was crucial for Mars to secure a reliable source of chocolate. This is where the "MM" mystery is solved!
The Big Reveal: What Does the MM Stand For?
The "MM" in M&M's stands for Mars & Murrie. The candies were initially a joint venture between Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie. This collaboration allowed for the creation and distribution of a chocolate candy that could withstand warmer temperatures, a significant advantage in the pre-air conditioning era.
Murrie's Stake and Departure: What Does the MM Stand For?
While the partnership was initially successful, Murrie eventually sold his 20% stake back to Mars in 1949. This was reportedly due to chocolate rationing during World War II, which made it difficult for Hershey to continue supplying chocolate to the M&M's venture. Despite Murrie's departure, the "MM" remained, a lasting testament to the initial collaboration that brought these beloved candies to life.
M&M's Evolution and Success: What Does the MM Stand For?
Since their introduction in 1941, M&M's have evolved from a simple chocolate candy to a global phenomenon. They've introduced various flavors, colors, and even spokescandies that have become pop culture icons. From plain chocolate to peanut, peanut butter, pretzel, and beyond, M&M's continue to innovate and cater to a wide range of taste preferences. The "MM", representing Mars & Murrie, remains a silent tribute to the brand's origins, even as the company has grown and changed.
Fun Facts About M&M's: What Does the MM Stand For?
- M&M's were initially sold in cardboard tubes.
- During World War II, M&M's were exclusively sold to the military.
- Red M&M's were temporarily removed in the 1970s due to concerns about a red dye, even though it wasn't used in the candy. They were brought back in 1987.
- M&M's are a popular snack for astronauts in space.
- There are "My M&M's" where you can personalize the candies with your own messages and images.
Question and Answer about M&M's
Q: So, the "MM" really just stands for the names of the founders? A: Yes, that's correct! It's a simple abbreviation of Mars and Murrie.
Q: Is Bruce Murrie still involved with M&M's today? A: No, Bruce Murrie sold his stake in the company back in 1949.
Q: Did Hershey ever compete with M&M's directly? A: Not directly. Hershey focused on its own chocolate bars and other products, but the initial partnership highlights a unique period of collaboration between the two confectionery giants.
In summary, the "MM" in M&M's stands for Mars & Murrie, representing the founders of the iconic candy. Bruce Murrie is no longer involved, having sold his stake in 1949, but his name remains a part of the M&M's legacy.
Keywords: M&M's, what does the mm stand for in mms, Forrest Mars Sr., Bruce Murrie, candy history, chocolate, Mars Incorporated, Hershey Chocolate, candy trivia, M&M's origins.