Pop Rocks, the iconic carbonated candy that creates a unique popping sensation in your mouth, was invented in 1956 by chemist William Mitchell while working for General Foods Corporation. However, the path from invention to commercial release is a fascinating story spanning nearly two decades.
The Accidental Discovery
William Mitchell wasn’t trying to create a popping candy when he made his breakthrough discovery. He was actually working on developing an instant carbonated drink powder for General Foods. During his experiments, he discovered that by combining powdered sugar with carbon dioxide under high pressure, he could create small crystals that would release carbonation when they came into contact with moisture.
The Development Years: 1956-1975
After the initial discovery in 1956, General Foods spent nearly 20 years developing and perfecting the product before bringing it to market. This extended development period involved:
Initial Testing Phase (1956-1961) General Foods conducted extensive testing to understand the chemical properties of the new candy. Scientists worked to stabilize the carbonation process and ensure consistent results.
Safety Research (1961-1970) The company invested significant resources in safety testing. They needed to ensure that the pressurized carbon dioxide wouldn’t cause any harm when consumed and that the candy would remain stable during storage and transportation.
Manufacturing Process Development (1970-1974) Engineers worked to design and build specialized equipment that could handle the unique manufacturing requirements. The process needed to maintain precise pressure and temperature controls while producing the candy at a commercial scale.
Commercial Release
Pop Rocks finally made their commercial debut in 1975. The initial release was limited to select markets in the Northwestern United States. The candy was priced at 15 cents per packet and marketed under the name “Pop Rocks.”
The First Year Success
The response to Pop Rocks was overwhelming. By 1976, General Foods had to put customers on a waiting list due to high demand. The company was selling more than 500 million packets per year at its peak popularity.
Manufacturing Innovation
The production process Mitchell developed was revolutionary for its time. It involved:
Temperature Control The sugar mixture had to be heated to exactly 320°F (160°C) to achieve the proper consistency.
Pressure Systems Carbon dioxide was incorporated under approximately 600 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure.
Cooling Process The mixture needed to be cooled rapidly while maintaining pressure to create the signature Pop Rocks texture.
Patent Protection
General Foods filed several patents to protect the unique manufacturing process:
- 1961: Initial patent application for the carbonation process
- 1963: Patent for the pressure-maintaining packaging
- 1965: Additional patent for manufacturing improvements
Product Evolution
Throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, Pop Rocks continued to evolve:
New Flavors The original cherry flavor was joined by grape, strawberry, and orange varieties.
Packaging Improvements The packaging was enhanced to better maintain freshness and prevent premature activation of the carbonation.
International Expansion By 1978, Pop Rocks were being sold in multiple countries around the world.
Brand Changes
The ownership and distribution of Pop Rocks has changed several times since its invention:
1985: General Foods sells the Pop Rocks brand 1988: Kraft Foods acquires the brand through a merger 1990s: Several licensing agreements are established 2018: Pop Rocks Inc. becomes the primary manufacturer
Scientific Legacy
Mitchell’s invention of Pop Rocks contributed significantly to food science:
Gasification Techniques The process developed for Pop Rocks influenced other carbonated candy developments.
Pressure-Based Manufacturing The high-pressure manufacturing process pioneered new approaches in food production.
Temperature Control Systems The precise temperature control requirements led to improvements in manufacturing equipment.
Cultural Impact
Pop Rocks quickly became more than just a candy:
Educational Tool Teachers began using Pop Rocks to demonstrate scientific principles in classrooms.
Popular Culture The candy has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and advertisements.
Culinary Innovation Chefs and mixologists have incorporated Pop Rocks into creative dishes and drinks.
Mitchell’s Other Inventions
William Mitchell was a prolific inventor who created several other popular food items:
- Tang powdered beverage (1957)
- Cool Whip (1966)
- Improved Quick-set Jell-O (1967)
- Various flavor enhancement patents
Modern Production
Today’s Pop Rocks are manufactured using essentially the same process Mitchell invented, though with modern equipment and safety controls:
Quality Control Advanced monitoring systems ensure consistent product quality.
Enhanced Safety Modern safety protocols protect workers and maintain product integrity.
Automated Systems Computer-controlled manufacturing processes maintain precise conditions.
Global Reach
From its humble beginnings in a General Foods laboratory, Pop Rocks has become a global phenomenon:
International Markets The candy is now sold in over 40 countries worldwide.
Cultural Adaptations Different regions have their own preferred flavors and packaging designs.
Brand Recognition Pop Rocks remains one of the most recognized candy brands globally.
Influence on Modern Candy Making
The invention of Pop Rocks has influenced modern candy manufacturing in several ways:
Innovation It demonstrated that novel candy experiences could be created through scientific innovation.
Manufacturing Processes The pressure-based manufacturing process pioneered new approaches in food production.
Safety Standards The extensive testing required for Pop Rocks helped establish new safety protocols for innovative candy products.
Future Developments
The technology behind Pop Rocks continues to inspire new developments:
Food Science Researchers continue to explore new applications for pressurized gas incorporation in foods.
Medical Applications The technology has influenced developments in drug delivery systems.
Environmental Considerations Modern manufacturers are working to make the production process more environmentally friendly.
The invention of Pop Rocks represents a significant milestone in candy manufacturing history. What began as an accidental discovery during the development of a carbonated drink powder became one of the most innovative and memorable candies ever created. William Mitchell’s invention not only entertained millions but also advanced food science and manufacturing technologies in ways that continue to influence product development today.