Ep 6. Minty Treats
- TVG
- August 5, 2002
- 20 min
In Unwrapped season 2 episode 6, titled "Minty Treats," viewers are taken on a nostalgic journey through the world of mint-flavored snacks. Host Marc Summers begins the episode by reminiscing about his childhood love for the classic after-dinner mint, which sets the tone for the entire show.
The first segment focuses on York Peppermint Patties, one of the most iconic minty treats on the market. Viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at how these beloved candies are made, from the mixing of the mint filling to the molding of the chocolate coating. Interviews with York employees reveal the secret to the patty's signature coolness: a mix of natural and artificial peppermint oils.
Next up is a feature on the Junior Mint, a popular movie theater candy that has become a household name. Viewers learn about the candy's origins (it was first made in the 1940s by the Cambridge Brands company) and its enduring popularity. We also get a peek at the assembly line where these little mints are made, and discover the surprising ingredient that gives them their creamy texture: fondant.
The third segment is all about Andes mints, the rectangular chocolate mints that have been a favorite of restaurants and hotels for decades. We learn about the long-standing partnership between Andes and Tootsie Roll Industries, which acquired the brand in the 2000s. We also get to see firsthand how these mints are made, from the mixing of the creamy filling to the wrapping of the individual candies.
The episode continues with a segment on the beloved Girl Scout Thin Mint, a cookie that has been a mainstay of the Girl Scout cookie lineup for decades. Viewers learn about the history of the organization and the cookie, as well as the ways in which Girl Scouts use cookie sales to fund a variety of community initiatives. We also get a tour of the Little Brownie Bakers factory, where the Thin Mints are made.
The penultimate segment focuses on Mentos mints, a candy that has gained popularity around the world for its unique combination of mint and fruit flavors. Viewers learn about the history of the brand, how it got its name, and how it became a cultural phenomenon. We also get a peek at the Mentos factory, where huge batches of the candy are made at once.
The final segment of the show is devoted to a lesser-known but equally tasty minty treat: the Ice Breakers breath mint. We learn about the origins of the brand (it was created by the Hershey Company in the early 2000s) and the ways in which it has distinguished itself from other mints on the market. Viewers also get a look at the high-tech equipment used to create the tiny mints, and hear from Ice Breakers employees about the brand's commitment to quality.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to fun facts about mint, including its use in ancient civilizations and its ability to soothe upset stomachs. We also hear from fans of each of the products featured, who share their own personal memories and experiences with these minty treats. Whether you love mint or just have a sweet tooth, this episode of Unwrapped is sure to leave you craving something cool and refreshing.