A guide to all things M&M's chocolate

M&M's, with their iconic candy-coated shells and irresistible chocolate centres, have been delighting American candy lovers around the world since their introduction in 1941. These colourful treats, produced by Mars Inc., come in a variety of flavours and styles, catering to a wide range of tastes. In this blog, we'll dive into the delightful world of M&M's, exploring their flavour variations, the differences in flavours between the US and UK, and answering some of the most popular questions people ask about this beloved brand.

A Rainbow of Flavours: M&M's Variations

M&M's are renowned for their classic milk chocolate centres, but over the years, Mars Inc. has introduced a plethora of exciting flavours to keep fans coming back for more.

Most Popular M&M's variations include:

Peanut M&M's: A crunchy peanut surrounded by milk chocolate and a colourful candy shell.
Peanut Butter M&M's: Creamy peanut butter encased in milk chocolate and a candy shell.
Crispy M&M's: A crispy rice centre wrapped in milk chocolate and a candy shell.
Pretzel M&M's: A salty pretzel core enveloped in milk chocolate and a candy shell.
Caramel M&M's: Gooey caramel surrounded by milk chocolate and a candy shell.
Almond M&M's: A whole almond coated in milk chocolate and a candy shell.
Mint M&M's: Mint-flavoured milk chocolate with a candy shell.
Coconut M&M's: Rich coconut and chocolate at the core, with a candy shell.
These variations ensure that there's an M&M's flavour for everyone, whether you prefer the classic milk chocolate or enjoy the unique combination of sweet and salty.

Flavour Differences: US vs. UK

While M&M's are a global brand, there are some notable differences in flavours and varieties between the US and the UK. Here are a few key distinctions:

Peanut Butter M&M's: Widely available and popular in the US, but harder to find in the UK.
Crispy M&M's: Originally introduced in the US but discontinued for a time, only to be brought back due to popular demand. In the UK, Crispy M&M's have consistently been available and remain a favorite.
Mint M&M's: More commonly found in the US, especially during holiday seasons, whereas in the UK, they are less prevalent.
Flavors and Limited Editions: The US market often sees a greater variety of limited-edition flavors, such as Pumpkin Spice, Coffee Nut, and White Chocolate. The UK market tends to have fewer seasonal variations but often enjoys limited-edition releases of popular flavors like Orange and Crispy.
These regional differences highlight how Mars Inc. tailors its products to suit the tastes and preferences of different markets.

Popular Questions About M&M's

1. What do the M's in M&M's stand for?

The M's in M&M's stand for Forrest Mars and Bruce Murrie, the founders of the company who collaborated to create the candy.

2. Are M&M's gluten-free?

Most M&M's varieties are gluten-free, but it's always best to check the packaging for specific allergen information, as some limited-edition or specialty flavors may contain gluten.

3. Are M&M's suitable for vegetarians?

While most M&M's products are suitable for vegetarians, some variations may contain ingredients derived from animal products. Always check the packaging for specific dietary information.

4. Do M&M's contain nuts?

Varieties like Peanut M&M's and Almond M&M's obviously contain nuts. However, even other varieties may be produced in facilities that handle nuts, so there may be a risk of cross-contamination. Check the packaging for allergen warnings.

5. How are M&M's made?

M&M's are made by coating small chocolate pellets with a colored candy shell. The process involves several stages, including coating the chocolate with liquid sugar, which hardens to form the shell, and then adding the distinctive "M" stamp.

6. Can you tour an M&M's factory?

While Mars Inc. does not typically offer public tours of their manufacturing facilities, M&M's World stores located in cities like New York, London, and Las Vegas offer an immersive experience into the world of M&M's, with interactive displays and a wide range of products.

7. Are there vegan M&M's?

As of now, Mars Inc. has not produced a vegan version of M&M's. Most varieties contain milk chocolate and other ingredients derived from animals. However, there are similar products on the market made by other companies that cater to vegan consumers.

8. How many colors of M&M's are there?

M&M's come in a variety of colors, with the classic mix including red, yellow, blue, green, orange, and brown. Special editions and seasonal releases often feature additional colors.

9. What is the most popular M&M's flavour?

The classic Milk Chocolate M&M's and Peanut M&M's are consistently among the most popular flavours worldwide.

10. How should M&M's be stored?

M&M's should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent melting and ensure they maintain their delicious flavour and texture.

11. Where can I buy American chocolate M&M's?

American M&M's are available from specialist local and online candy stores in the UK. At Candy Hype you can buy American candy, chocolates and snacks at our store online in the UK.

Check out our article for more information on American chocolate brands and where you can buy American chocolates from in the UK.

Conclusion

M&M's continue to be a favourite treat for candy lovers of all ages, offering a delightful mix of flavours and colours that appeal to a wide audience. Whether you're enjoying the classic Milk Chocolate M&M's or exploring new and exciting varieties, there's no denying the universal appeal of these iconic candies. As Mars Inc. continues to innovate and introduce new flavours, M&M's will undoubtedly remain a beloved American chocolate treat for years to come.