Why Are Shrimps and Bananas Together? The History Behind This Iconic Candy Combo

Walk down the candy aisle of any British supermarket and you’re bound to spot one of the most iconic candy pairings – shrimps and bananas. These colorful foam sweets shaped like small crustaceans and curved yellow fruits have been a favorite for decades. But have you ever wondered why shrimps and bananas seem to go hand-in-hand in the world of candy? There’s actually a fascinating history behind this unexpected match made in sugar heaven.

In this article we’ll explore the origins of shrimps and bananas candy the thinking behind the unique flavor pairing, and why this retro treat remains popular today. Read on for the sweet story behind one of the most beloved candies for kids and adults alike!

A Brief History of Shrimps and Bananas Candy

While combining shrimp and banana flavors might sound odd, this candy combo has been delighting tastebuds since the 1960s.

• Shrimps and bananas candies were first introduced in the UK by Barratt, makers of classic British sweets.

• They wanted create an innovative new foam candy using the trendy new texture along with two popular fruit flavors.

• The shrimp shape was chosen for novelty and the banana as a nod to the popularity of banana candies at the time.

Despite initial skepticism, the unusual pairing of flavors and shapes was a huge hit! The candies have been produced by Barratt ever since, retaining their signature shrimp and banana shapes to this day.

The Inspiration Behind the Combo

So why pair two seemingly unrelated flavors in one candy? There was some careful food science reasoning behind the shrimp and banana combo!

• Bananas and shrimp both contain a substance called chitosan that keeps produce fresh longer. This discovery showed the natural affinity between the two flavors.

• Raspberry (shrimp) and banana are complementary flavor profiles – the sweetness of banana balances the tangy raspberry in a delightful way.

• Texture also plays a role. The chewy shrimp pieces and smooth banana shapes feel different in the mouth, creating another layer of interest.

The result was a new taste sensation that delighted kids and adults alike!

Why This Candy Combo Endures

While some candy fads come and go, shrimps and bananas have had incredible staying power. Here are some of the reasons this candy classic remains popular after over 50 years:

• Iconic branding – The colorful logo and packaging featuring zoo animals is instantly recognizable on the candy aisle.

• Whimsical shape – The novelty of the shrimp and banana shapes appeals to our sense of fun.

• Nostalgic flavor – The candy tastes just like childhood to those who grew up with it.

• Added varieties – New flavors like cola bottles and cherries have joined the shrimp and banana lineup.

• Cultural significance – The candy has become part of the fabric of British pop culture.

For anyone born in the UK, the very mention of “shrimps and bananas” brings a nostalgic smile. While newer sweets have tried to copy it, nothing beats the original pairing!

Not Just Candy – Shrimps and Bananas in Food

Interestingly, the combination of shrimp and banana wasn’t confined just to the candy world. The flavors have been united in dishes across Southeast Asian cuisines for centuries.

• In Thai cooking, shrimp and banana feature together in the popular street food Khanom Krok.

• Vietnamese Banh Xeo pancakes contain shrimp and slices of banana for contrasting textures and flavors.

The sweet and savory combo likely originated because shrimp shells and banana peels share a common compound. Who knew that candies and cuisine could find inspiration in the same strange pairing?

Other Unexpected Candy Flavor Mash-ups

Of course, shrimps and bananas weren’t the only wild candy invention. Once food scientists discovered the flavor chemistry behind this surprising pair, the race was on to concoct other unconventional combos.

Here are some of the other outside-the-box candy flavors that emerged over the years:

• Bacon flavored candy and chocolate covered bacon
• Chili and chocolate – sweet heat!
• Fruit and herbs like strawberry basil gummies
• Savory flavors like pickle candy or wasabi gummies

Will any of these stranger-than-fiction mashups ever reach the iconic status of shrimps and bananas? Only time will tell!

Shrimps and Bananas Forever!

While many novelty candies have come and gone, Barratt’s ingenious marriage of shrimp and banana endures. The story of how these two unlikely partners came together is a fascinating glimpse into the art and science of candy making.

The raspberry shrimp and banana foam sweets even earned a place in Britain’s cultural history. Thanks to nostalgia, innovation, and sheer deliciousness, shrimps and bananas remain one of the most iconic candies of all time.

So next time you pass the candy aisle, revel in this sweet taste of childhood with a bag of these classic flavor soulmates. Just look for the colorful logo featuring Monty, Gina, and Ronni – shrimp and banana candy legends!