It’s June; welcome to National Candy Month! (Yeah, they have days, and months, for all kinds of random things–this though, well, this is one of the most important of all the random things, months. At least, in our opinion. :) ) The question that we had about this though, was why? Why is June, National Candy Month? (Other than the fact that candy is just awesome.) We, obviously, had our suspicions as to why WE thought such a month should exist (because candy is awesome)–but, today, we tell you exactly why, officially, this month exists.
The reason we have National Candy month, officially, and the biggest reason that candy is so important to our country is that is tastes really, really, good–WAY better then broccoli, and definitely better than brussel sprouts. The end.
Just kidding.
Actually, candy, and candy makers, play a HUGE role in job creation and the economy. According to the National Confectioners Association, “Many of America’s candy companies have been family-owned for generations. These companies not only make the treats we all enjoy, but are also important job creators. The confectionery industry provides 55,000 manufacturing jobs in more than 1,000 facilities across the country, and has a direct economic impact of $35 billion. For every 1 job that the industry creates in manufacturing, another 7 are supported in related fields like retail, agriculture and shipping.
The companies that make chocolate, candy, gum and mints are constantly developing new products and packaging, as consumers increasingly expect more transparency when it comes to calorie counts and ingredients in what they eat and drink,” Downs said. “From front-of-pack calorie labels that put information right at consumers’ fingertips to creating a wide variety of options that can bring a little enjoyment to any occasion, we are providing consumers with the information, support and options they need to make the choices that are right for them.
There’s no confusion among consumers when it comes to understanding the unique role that confections can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle, and they are choosing their moment to enjoy them in moderation. Most people in the U.S. enjoy candy about twice per week, averaging about 40 calories per day from confectionery items. Chocolate, candy, gum and mints account for less than 2 percent of the average American’s overall caloric intake, and an average of about one teaspoon of added sugar per day.”
When it all comes down to it…“National Candy Month is a time to revel in this quintessential American manufacturing success story,” John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “For those who enjoy the occasional treat, those who appreciate the strong economic impact of a responsible and fun industry, and for many others, this is a month made for celebration.”
We love the fact the candy, for the month of June, is being appreciated for more than just being a treat; well, for those in the know anyway (like you now are). The recognition is much more about the economic impact of the manufacturers, and the jobs that are created, and maintained, across the nation. (Like us! We may not be manufacturers of candy–but, we’re a prime example of candy creating businesses, and jobs.)
Anyway, now you know WHY, exactly, National Candy Month is a thing–it’s so much more than just enjoying an extra candy bar, with a party hat on, while sitting in your cube at work, and not feeling even a little bit guilty (though, that’s always a great way to celebrate; we’re definitely not knocking it–in fact, if you choose to celebrate this way, send us a pic, we’d love to see :) ).
