A fiery debate around a Halloween staple is underway – is candy corn a prankish treat for trick – or – treaters or a cherished seasonal treasure?

This sugary emblem of Halloween, with its distinctive trio of colors mimicking autumn’s palette, holds a polarizing position in the confectionery world. Devotees and detractors cite its waxy composition and intense sugary flavor as points of contention or adoration.

“Candy corn is a celebration in a bite – it’s pure sugar, and it’s fabulous,” effuses comedian Shannon Fiedler in a viral TikTok video. “Yes, there’s a bizarre, candle-like quality to it, and it’s probably why it’s appealing in its own quirky way.”

Echoing this sentiment, Huntington, New York resident Paul Zarcone admits his affection for the candy despite its unconventional appearance: “The more people dislike it, the more it endears itself to me!”

Leading the pack, Brach’s produces an estimated 30 million pounds of this confection annually for autumn, enough to encircle the globe multiple times. Last season, the brand dominated the market with $75 million out of $88.5 million in total candy corn sales, according to market analysis by Circana.

Candy corn may not boast the sales of major chocolate brands, yet it has infiltrated popular culture, unlike any other confection, sparking memes, influencing decor, and inspiring fashion trends.

The candy has found its way into various treats, from nut mixes to cupcakes, and even into the cereal aisle with a Corn Pops edition by Kellogg’s. It’s not just food – Vans and Nike have released candy corn-themed footwear.

Entertainment figure Michelle Williams is among its notable fans, having penned a song to celebrate her fondness for the candy, commissioned by Brach’s.

While Brach’s consistently innovates with new flavor mixes, not all experiments endure – a Turkey Dinner variety with unconventional flavors like green beans and the roast turkey was discontinued after two seasons.

The history of candy corn is shrouded in myth, with Wunderle Candy Co. of Philadelphia credited with creating the confection in 1888, an era when its agricultural motif resonated with the populace. Brach’s entered the scene in 1920, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Nutritionally, candy corn is comparable to other Halloween candies, with a simple ingredient list primarily composed of sugar, corn syrup, and confectioner’s glaze.

Richard Hartel, who teaches candy science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, notes that the texture and taste are not radically different from other candies. However, opinions on its buttery, honey-like flavor are split.

Fans like Margie Sung savor candy corn ritualistically, enjoying each color layer separately, while others like Aaron Sadler stockpile the candy well into November, reveling in post-Halloween discounts.

Some enthusiasts like Lisa Marsh mix candy corn with peanuts for a salty-sweet experience and store it meticulously for year-round enjoyment.

The candy has its staunch critics as well, who denounce it as flavorless, but loyalists like Diana Peacock from Colorado defend its honor fervently.

Despite the divisive opinions, for some, like Savannah Woolston in Washington, D.C., candy corn is an essential part of the seasonal spirit, on par with pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters.

Candy corn, whether beloved or berated, stands as an enduring symbol of Halloween’s confectionery tradition.