The Story Behind Jelly Belly:
Colorful, Flavorful Jelly Beans
While you’re filling plastic eggs and adorning cupcakes with jelly beans, let’s dive into the history and creation of America’s most beloved gourmet jelly beans, Jelly Belly. These vibrant, flavorful candies have a rich history dating back to 1869, just two years after brothers Gustav and Albert Goelitz emigrated from Germany.
From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Treats
Gustav, at 24, and Albert, at 21, initially set up an ice cream and candy store in Belleville, Illinois. Reuniting with an uncle who had migrated five years earlier, the Goelitz brothers started their journey in the confectionery business. Albert took to a horse-drawn wagon to sell their sweets to surrounding communities.
The Goelitz brothers didn’t invent jelly beans but played a significant role in popularizing them in America. These tiny jelly candies, inspired by Turkish Delight, were transformed into the familiar jelly bean shape using a method called “panning,” dating back to 17th century France. Originally, jelly beans were citrus, rose-water, and honey gel with a firm outer coating and chewy center.
The Great Depression and Beyond
The Goelitz Brothers faced economic hardships during the Great Depression of 1893, forcing them to sell their business. Albert continued in the candy trade until his death, while Gustav never recovered from the financial setback. However, the next generation, led by Gustav’s son Adolph and his partner William Kelley, revived the family tradition.
In the early 1900s, America fell in love with chocolate, but World War II brought chocolate shortages, leading Americans back to penny candies and jelly beans. Adolph and Kelley moved the company to North Chicago, ensuring it survived these tough times by focusing on popular penny candies and jelly beans.
Innovations and Expansion
The company’s best seller for decades was candy corn, a treat that had been around since the 1880s. In the 1970s, Herman Rowland, a descendant of Gustav, recognized the need for diversification. At just 19 years old, Herman expanded the company’s product line, adding unique flavors like Very Cherry, Lemon, and Cream Soda to the jelly bean repertoire. This innovation led to the creation of Jelly Bellys, known for their intense, natural flavors.
Jelly Bellys: A Presidential Favorite
Ronald Reagan, the Governor of California in 1967, famously stated,
“We can hardly start a meeting or make a decision without passing around the jar of jelly beans.“
This endorsement catapulted Jelly Belly into the national spotlight, especially during Reagan’s presidential campaigns and his time in the White House.
During the 1980 Presidential Election, Jelly Belly became a household name as Reagan’s passion for jelly beans introduced Blueberry Jelly Bellys to serve red, white, and blue jelly beans at inaugural parties. Production increased around the clock, with orders booked two years in advance.
“Three tons of Jelly Bellys were served at the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan,”
according to the Reagan Library, showcasing their popularity and presidential seal of approval.
Fun Facts and Records
- First Jelly Bean in Space: In 1983, Jelly Bellys were sent on the space shuttle Challenger as a presidential surprise for the astronauts. This flight also included the first American female astronaut, Sally Ride.
- Diet-Friendly: Each Jelly Belly has just one calorie, making it a guilt-free treat for dieters. The flavors are so accurate that it feels like an indulgence to eat a caramel apple or buttered popcorn jelly bean.
- Creative Combinations: Jelly Belly fans love mixing flavors to create new taste sensations, a practice encouraged by the company with recipes on their website and packaging. This playful aspect of Jelly Belly adds to their appeal.
Call-to-Action
Explore the delicious world of Jelly Belly by purchasing your gourmet jelly beans through my Amazon affiliate link. Experience the rich history and unique flavors that have made Jelly Belly a household name.
Jelly Beans: A Gourmet Treat
Today, the Jelly Belly Candy Company is the world’s choice for gourmet jelly beans. They offer fifty official flavors and countless other varieties, from special collections to wacky, fun flavors. Jelly Belly also features popular Movie Flavors like those from Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans, including Ear Wax, Rotten Egg, and Vomit.
The company still manufactures candy corn and more than 100 other candies, including gummies, sour candies, and chocolates. With a legacy of quality and innovation, Jelly Belly continues to delight candy lovers of all ages.
Explore the world of Jelly Belly today and indulge in the unique flavors that have made these jelly beans a beloved treat for generations. Don’t forget to check out the recipes and mix your favorite flavors to create a new taste sensation. Happy snacking!
Final Thoughts
Imagine Herman Rowland, just 19 years old, passionately adding jelly beans to the production line, unaware that these tiny candies would soon become an American icon, loved by presidents and astronauts alike.