Necco Wafers, America’s original candy is back this summer

Necco Wafers are finally back and waiting for you.

After a two-year hiatus, Necco Wafers will be back on store shelves. Even if you can’t remember the last time that you enjoyed this candy, it has been part of food history. Sometimes a bite of nostalgia is more than just another sweet treat.

While many people look to the latest food trend to satisfy their cravings, certain classic foods can always bring a smile. Just like that aroma from grandma’s Sunday sauce can feel like a warm hug, those classic candies can be a reminder of a special moment. Even just unwrapping a package can bring a smile.

Very few candies have been around as long as these candy wafers. Those little round discs with the classic logo have been around since 1847. From the wax paper wrapper to the shape, nothing has changed.

Each candy package contains eight flavors, lemon, lime, orange, clove, cinnamon, wintergreen, licorice and chocolate. While most of the color/flavor pairings are obvious, the clove (purple), cinnamon (white) and wintergreen (pink) are not quite obvious.

Whether everyone loves all the flavors or prefers some flavors, the candy has been more than just a sweet treat. Looking back through history, those candies have had some interesting uses.

For example, those candies have been used as poker chips, decoration for gingerbread houses and even have been used for communion practice. Given the shape, many people have found creative uses these wafer candies.

While people found creative uses for the candy, there have been some significant uses of this candy. For example, Necco was presented to Eskimo children during Arctic explorations and were even taken to the South Pole.

During the Civil War, they were a special treat for soldiers. Even during World War II, the U.S. Government requisitioned production for the troops.

As the Necco Wafers make their way back to store shelves, it is the perfect time to rediscover the classic candy or introduce the candy to someone who has never tried it. Even if you do not like all the eight flavors, you could barter with a friend to get an extra chocolate one.

For a complete list of retailers that will offer the candy this summer, please visit the Spangler Candy website.

Will you be searching for this candy? What other classic candies are your favorites?