The first candy on a stick, according to the National Confectioners Association, was probably created by cavemen who maintained beehives and collected honey by stick. Not wanting to waste the sweet residue, they, most likely, licked the utensil and thus the first unintentional lollipop, or, candy on a stick, was born.
It has been reported and verified through archeological discoveries that ancient Arabs, Chinese and Egyptians produced fruit and nut confections which were "candied" in honey which served as a preservative. Due to the nature of the sticky substance, recent discoveries have hinted that sticks were inserted into these treats to make them easier to eat.
In the middle ages in Europe, sugar was an imported luxury item thus making candy extremely expensive. As such, it was enjoyed by nobility and the very wealthy. In order to make this delicacy last longer, sugar was boiled and formed into hard blocks. Although this might be considered the advent of bulk candy, it is reported that candy treats were made complete with sticks and ornate handles.
In the 17th Century, as sugar became plentiful, it was considered a delicacy in England to enjoy boiled sugar candy treats. In order to make them easier to eat, a stick was inserted. By looking at the definition, linguists have surmised that the term "lollipop" may have been derived from street vendors in London during the age of Charles Dickens.
There remain discrepancies as to who was the true creator of the modern day lollipop. As early as 1905, the McAviney Candy Company, now defunct, may have stumbled upon this confection purely by default. The owner created boiled hard candies which were stirred by stick. At day's end, as a treat for his children, he would bring home sticks covered with the hard candy residue. It wasn't until 1908 that he began to market these "used candy sticks".
From the dawn of man to the new millennium, I'd say this crave worthy confection has become one of the most popular candies in existence! :)
In this ever changing, fast moving work and life environment we all are in, it`s necessary to slow down on occasion and reflect on the parts of life that are flying by. We suggest that taking a 10 minute lollipop break could cut down on stress, allow people to reflect on their day, week or lives and in general make the world a better place. Let Simply Heaven Lollipop Shoppe help you to pamper yourself, and take a well deserved break!
