Ep 13. Candy

Food(ography) season 1 episode 13 explores the delectable world of candy, diving into the history, culture, and artistry behind everyone's favorite sweet treat. Host Mo Rocca takes viewers on a tantalizing journey through a variety of candy creations, ranging from traditional favorites to innovative confections.

In this captivating episode, Mo begins by uncovering the ancient origins of candy, tracing its roots back to the exotic lands of Mesopotamia and Egypt. He delves into the rich history of sugar, a key ingredient in many candies, and its incredible impact on global trade and exploration. From there, Mo guides us through a vibrant montage of candy stores, factories, and expert chocolatiers, showcasing the fascinating processes involved in candy making.

The episode highlights a wide array of beloved candies, both nostalgic classics and modern creations. Mo takes a trip down memory lane as he explores the enduring popularity of retro candies such as Necco Wafers, Clark Bars, and Mary Janes. He interviews long-time candy aficionados and collectors, learning about the sentimental value of these timeless treats and the nostalgia they evoke.

Viewers are then whisked away into the whimsical world of gourmet and artisanal candies. Mo enters the realm of Willy Wonka-esque confectioners, marveling at their extraordinary craftsmanship and innovative flavor combinations. From premium handcrafted chocolates to exotic fruit-flavored gummies, these culinary artisans demonstrate their mastery of the candy-making craft while pushing the boundaries of taste and texture.

The episode also explores the intersection of candy making and art, highlighting the astonishing creativity behind edible sculptures and candy-based installations. Mo visits renowned artists who create mesmerizing candy landscapes and intricate sugar sculptures, demonstrating the surprising versatility of candy as a medium for artistic expression.

No candy-centric episode would be complete without a visit to a traditional candy store, and this episode delivers just that. Mo takes us on a tour of a quintessential old-fashioned sweet shop, immersing us in a nostalgic atmosphere filled with jars of colorful candies and mouth-watering smells. He chats with the store's owner, learning about the challenges and joys of running a business fueled by childhood dreams and sugar cravings.

To further indulge our sweet tooth, the episode transports us to a candy expo, a gathering of candy enthusiasts, producers, and industry insiders. Mo taps into the excitement and energy of the event, exploring the latest trends and innovations in the world of candy. He discovers unique flavor combinations, inventive packaging designs, and the ever-evolving techniques used by candy manufacturers to captivate consumers.

Throughout the episode, informative and entertaining interviews with candy experts, historians, and chefs shed light on the cultural significance of candy and its universal appeal. Mo explores how different societies and cultures have developed their own distinctive candies, from Japanese gummies to Mexican dulces. These diverse perspectives broaden our understanding of candy as not just a sugary indulgence, but also a reflection of people's traditions, values, and creative spirit.

Food(ography) season 1 episode 13 delves deep into the captivating world of candy, celebrating its enduring popularity, rich history, and boundless creativity. From nostalgic childhood favorites to gourmet masterpieces, this episode is sure to satisfy your cravings for all things sweet while leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the art and culture of candy making. So grab a bag of your favorite treats, sit back, and join Mo Rocca on this deliciously enchanting journey.