Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love and affection, is often associated with chocolate, flowers, and of course, conversation hearts. These tiny, pastel-colored candies, stamped with short, sometimes quirky, messages, have been a staple of the holiday for generations. But in recent years, questions have arisen about their continued existence. Are conversation hearts still being made? Are they still as popular as they once were? Let’s dive into the sweet and sometimes complicated story of this iconic Valentine’s Day treat.
The Enduring Appeal of Conversation Hearts
Conversation hearts, also known as Sweethearts, hold a unique place in Valentine’s Day traditions. Their charm lies in their simplicity, their bright colors, and the often-humorous or sentimental messages they carry. They’re a tangible way to express affection, even if it’s just a playful “Be Mine” or a simple “Kiss Me.”
Beyond their symbolic value, conversation hearts evoke a sense of nostalgia. Many adults remember receiving or giving these candies as children, making them a potent symbol of childhood memories and simpler times. This nostalgic appeal continues to contribute to their popularity, even as newer, flashier Valentine’s Day treats emerge.
The tactile nature of these candies also adds to their appeal. Unlike digital messages or fleeting gifts, conversation hearts are something you can hold, share, and even nibble on. This physical presence reinforces the sentiment behind the message, making it feel more personal and meaningful.
A Rocky Road: The Near-Extinction of Sweethearts
The future of conversation hearts looked uncertain for a period. In 2018, the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO), the original manufacturer of Sweethearts, declared bankruptcy. This news sent shockwaves through the candy industry and left many wondering if conversation hearts would become a relic of the past.
NECCO’s closure meant the end of an era for many iconic candies, including the beloved Sweethearts. The company had been producing these treats for over 150 years, making them a truly historical part of American confectionery.
In 2018, the company was acquired by Round Hill Investments and then shortly after sold to Spangler Candy Company. Spangler Candy, known for Dum-Dums lollipops and other classic candies, stepped in to rescue Sweethearts from oblivion. However, the transition wasn’t seamless.
The 2019 Messaging Mishap
Due to the quick turnaround and the complexities of moving the equipment, Spangler Candy faced significant challenges in producing conversation hearts for Valentine’s Day 2019. As a result, many packages of Sweethearts hit store shelves without any messages at all, or with misprinted or incomplete phrases.
The empty hearts sparked a mix of amusement and disappointment among consumers. While some embraced the blank canvases as an opportunity for creativity, others missed the traditional messages that had always been part of the Sweethearts experience.
Spangler Candy acknowledged the issues and assured consumers that they were working to restore the candies to their former glory. The company invested in upgrading the printing technology and refining the production process to ensure that future batches of Sweethearts would be properly imprinted.
The Sweet Return: Conversation Hearts Today
The good news is that conversation hearts are indeed still being made! Spangler Candy successfully overcame the initial production challenges and has been producing Sweethearts with their iconic messages ever since.
While the 2019 Valentine’s Day season was a bit of a hiccup, Spangler Candy learned valuable lessons and has worked diligently to improve the quality and consistency of their conversation hearts. They understand the importance of this iconic candy to consumers and are committed to preserving its legacy.
Today, you can find conversation hearts in most major retailers during the Valentine’s Day season. They’re available in a variety of sizes and packaging options, from small individual boxes to large bags perfect for sharing.
New Flavors and Messages: Keeping Things Fresh
While the classic flavors and messages of conversation hearts remain popular, Spangler Candy has also introduced some new and updated versions to appeal to a wider audience. This includes experimenting with new flavors and incorporating more contemporary phrases into the candy’s imprints.
For example, some newer versions of conversation hearts feature messages inspired by popular slang, emojis, and social media trends. This helps to keep the candies relevant and engaging for younger generations while still retaining the core appeal of the classic treat.
The flavors have also seen some refreshing updates. While the traditional flavors remain, you can now find conversation hearts with fruitier and more vibrant tastes, catering to evolving consumer preferences.
Beyond Sweethearts: Alternative Conversation Heart Options
While Sweethearts are the most well-known brand of conversation hearts, they’re not the only option available. Several other candy companies produce similar versions of these treats, offering a variety of flavors, colors, and messages.
Generic brands of conversation hearts can often be found at lower prices than Sweethearts, making them a budget-friendly option for those who want to share the love without breaking the bank. These generic versions often feature similar messages and colors to the original, but may vary slightly in taste and texture.
Some smaller confectionery companies also produce artisanal or gourmet versions of conversation hearts, using higher-quality ingredients and more sophisticated flavors. These treats are often sold at specialty candy stores or online retailers and can be a great option for those looking for a more premium Valentine’s Day treat.
DIY Conversation Hearts: A Personal Touch
For those who want to get creative, making your own conversation hearts is a fun and personalized option. There are many recipes available online for homemade conversation hearts, allowing you to customize the flavors, colors, and messages to your liking.
Making your own conversation hearts can be a fun activity to do with kids or with your significant other. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your Valentine’s Day celebrations and create a truly unique gift.
You can use food coloring to create a variety of pastel shades and edible markers to write your own messages on the candies. This allows you to express your feelings in a truly personalized way, going beyond the standard phrases found on commercially produced conversation hearts.
The Sweetheart Sentiment: More Than Just Candy
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of conversation hearts lies not just in their taste or appearance, but in the sentiment they represent. These tiny candies are a symbol of love, friendship, and connection, and a reminder to express our feelings to those we care about.
Whether you choose to share a box of Sweethearts with your sweetheart, give them to your friends, or simply enjoy them yourself, conversation hearts are a sweet and simple way to celebrate the spirit of Valentine’s Day.
They represent a tradition that has spanned generations, and while they faced a brief period of uncertainty, their future looks bright once again. So, the next time you’re looking for a way to express your affection this Valentine’s Day, consider reaching for a box of conversation hearts. They’re a timeless classic that is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. They remind us that a simple gesture, like sharing a candy with a kind message, can truly make a difference.
Conversation hearts have been a part of Valentine’s Day celebrations for so long that many people feel they aren’t properly celebrated without them. Their sweet taste and iconic messages bring back fond memories. They are not just candies; they are a tradition.
Are Conversation Hearts Still Popular on Valentine’s Day?
Conversation hearts, despite facing production challenges and changing consumer preferences, remain a recognizable and nostalgic symbol of Valentine’s Day. While their overall market share might not be as dominant as in previous decades, they continue to hold a place in many people’s celebrations. The hearts evoke a sense of tradition and simpler times, making them a popular choice for those seeking a sentimental or retro Valentine’s Day experience.
Moreover, the continued availability of conversation hearts, even with shifts in manufacturers and flavor profiles, ensures their presence on store shelves each year. The hearts are also frequently featured in Valentine’s Day-themed displays and promotions, further solidifying their association with the holiday. The social media buzz generated around the candy each year also contributes to their continued visibility and relevance.
What Happened to the Original Necco Conversation Hearts?
The New England Confectionery Company (Necco), the original manufacturer of conversation hearts for over 150 years, declared bankruptcy in 2018. This led to a brief period of uncertainty regarding the future of the candy, as Necco’s assets, including the conversation hearts recipe and equipment, were sold. Many feared the beloved candy would disappear completely from Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Spangler Candy Company eventually acquired the Necco Wafers and Sweethearts brands in 2018. While Spangler initially experienced difficulties restoring the original formulas and printing processes, they successfully brought conversation hearts back to market. The journey back to shelves involved significant effort to recreate the authentic flavors and classic sayings.
Have the Flavors and Sayings on Conversation Hearts Changed?
Yes, the flavors and sayings on conversation hearts have evolved over time. Initially, the flavors were primarily wintergreen, clove, and licorice, which were popular in the late 19th century. Modern iterations often include fruitier flavors like cherry, banana, and orange, reflecting changing consumer tastes.
Similarly, the sayings printed on the hearts have been updated to reflect contemporary language and trends. While classic phrases like “Be Mine” and “Kiss Me” remain, newer expressions like “Text Me” and “Bestie” are also common. This adaptation helps maintain the candy’s relevance and appeal to younger generations.
What are Some of the Challenges in Making Conversation Hearts?
Producing conversation hearts involves several challenges. One significant hurdle is maintaining the structural integrity of the candy during the printing process. The hearts must be sturdy enough to withstand the pressure of the printing machines without crumbling or breaking.
Another challenge lies in ensuring the consistent and legible printing of the sayings. The printers need to apply the messages evenly and clearly onto the small, curved surfaces of the hearts. This requires precise calibration and careful monitoring to prevent smudging or illegible text, ensuring the messages are readable and enjoyable.
Are There Alternatives to Traditional Conversation Hearts?
Absolutely! Numerous alternatives to traditional conversation hearts exist for those seeking different flavors, textures, or dietary options. Gourmet candy companies offer artisanal versions with unique flavors and higher-quality ingredients. These often feature more sophisticated sayings or custom messages.
For individuals with dietary restrictions, sugar-free or vegan conversation heart alternatives are available. These cater to specific needs while still capturing the essence of the classic Valentine’s Day treat. Furthermore, heart-shaped chocolates, cookies, and other candies can serve as delicious and personalized substitutes.
How Have Conversation Hearts Adapted to Modern Technology?
Conversation hearts have embraced modern technology in various ways. Online retailers offer personalized conversation hearts with custom messages, allowing customers to create unique and memorable gifts. This enables a higher level of personalization than traditional pre-printed hearts.
Furthermore, augmented reality (AR) experiences have been incorporated into some conversation heart products. By scanning the candy with a smartphone app, users can unlock interactive games, animations, or personalized messages. This adds an element of novelty and excitement to the traditional candy.
Why Do Conversation Hearts Still Resonate with People Today?
Conversation hearts continue to resonate with people because they represent a sense of nostalgia and tradition. They evoke memories of childhood Valentine’s Day exchanges and simpler times. The candy’s association with love, friendship, and lightheartedness contributes to its enduring appeal.
Beyond nostalgia, conversation hearts offer a unique form of self-expression and connection. The simple messages, even with their occasional quirks, provide a tangible way to communicate affection and good wishes. The act of sharing and exchanging the hearts reinforces social bonds and fosters a sense of community.