Ep 10. Oldies But Goodies

In this episode of Unwrapped, titled "Oldies But Goodies," host Marc Summers takes viewers on a trip down memory lane as he revisits some classic snacks of the past. From Mary Janes and Bit-O-Honey to candy necklaces and wax lips, Summers explores the sweet treats that defined the childhoods of many viewers.

The episode begins with a visit to the NECCO candy factory, where Summers explores the process of making their iconic candy wafers. From mixing the ingredients to pressing and cutting the candy, viewers get an inside look at how the colorful wafers are made. Summers then heads to the Pennsylvania factory where Mary Janes are manufactured. This timeless candy, made from molasses and peanut butter, has been a favorite since the early 1900s. Summers interviews the president of the company, who shares some of the history and business practices that have kept Mary Janes relevant for over a century.

Next, Summers explores the world of penny candy. He visits a Chicago candy store that specializes in classic sweets like candy buttons, candy necklaces, and candy cigarettes. The store's owner shares some of the history of these old-fashioned candies, which were popular in the mid-20th century and are still beloved by many today. The episode also features a trip to a wax museum exhibit, where life-size figures of celebrities are adorned with wax lips and other wax novelty items. Summers chats with the museum's director, who explains the appeal of these quirky items and their enduring popularity with kids and adults alike.

No exploration of classic candy would be complete without a trip to a soda shop, and that's exactly where Summers heads next. He visits an old-fashioned soda fountain in St. Louis that has been in operation since the 1920s. There, Summers tries soda flavors that he remembers from his own childhood, like orange, root beer, and grape. The shop's owner talks about the rise and fall of soda fountains in America and how they have become a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era.

Lastly, the episode takes a look at one of the most enduring classic candies of all time: the Hershey's Kiss. Summers visits the Hershey's factory in Pennsylvania to learn about the history of the Kiss and see how they are made. From molding the chocolate to wrapping it in the iconic silver foil, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the entire process. Summers also visits Hershey's Chocolate World, where he tries different Kiss flavors and talks with visitors about their memories of the classic candy.

Throughout the episode, there are plenty of fun facts and interesting stories shared about these classic candies. Viewers will learn about the origins of candy necklaces (they were originally worn as jewelry in the 1950s), why wax lips were so popular in the 1940s and 50s, and how Hershey's Kisses got their name. There are also interviews with candy experts and historians who shed light on the enduring appeal of these timeless treats.

Overall, "Oldies But Goodies" is a fun and nostalgic trip down memory lane. Whether viewers grew up with these classic candies or are discovering them for the first time, there's something for everyone in this episode of Unwrapped.