As Christmas approaches, many in the United Kingdom are preparing to indulge in one of their most cherished sweets, Jelly Babies. These iconic candies not only come in various colors but also have distinct names that many consumers may not be aware of. A recent survey revealed that 65% of respondents consider Jelly Babies their favorite sweet, placing them ahead of other popular treats such as Fruit Pastilles and Fruit Gums.
The survey, conducted by Perspectus Global, highlighted that 78% of participants enjoy revisiting childhood memories through candy. Jonathan Horsley, a representative from Perspectus Global, noted, “Sweets are one of life’s simple pleasures. You can see how they provoke feelings of nostalgia.”
Unveiling the Names Behind the Colors
Despite their popularity, many people are unaware that each of the six Jelly Baby flavors has its own unique name. Richard Price, a British grocery expert at BritSuperstore.co.uk, explained, “Whilst every Brit undoubtedly has a favorite flavor or often color, few British consumers or expats realize they actually have a name. As part of their rebrand in 1953, Bassetts gave each color a distinct shape and name.”
This rebranding effort transformed Jelly Babies into a nostalgic staple for many, reminding them of simpler times. The candy has been enjoyed for over 160 years, with its origins tracing back to 1864. According to historians, the first Jelly Baby was created by an Austrian confectioner working for Fryers of Lancashire. Initially intended to be Jelly Bears, the sweets took on a different form and were affectionately dubbed Jelly Babies.
More Sweet Surprises in the Candy Aisle
Jelly Babies are not the only British sweets that have sparked confusion over their names. Recently, social media user Joe Lewis shared an amusing revelation on TikTok regarding his long-held misconception about Blue Riband bars. After ordering a large box of biscuits from Amazon, he was surprised to discover that the popular treat was not called “Blue Ribbon” as he had always thought.
He expressed his shock, asking his followers, “So please tell me I’m not the only person that’s ever noticed this?” Many commenters echoed his sentiment, affirming they too had referred to the candy incorrectly.
These delightful discoveries highlight the enduring appeal of classic British sweets, which continue to evoke nostalgia and joy among consumers. As families gather for the festive season, Jelly Babies and other beloved treats will likely remain at the forefront of holiday celebrations across the UK.
