The Snickers Candy Bar Was Named After a Horse

You might think you know everything about your favorite candy bar, but there's a surprising equestrian twist to the Snickers story. The iconic chocolate treat, beloved by millions, owes its name to an unexpected source: a champion horse. This connection between confectionery and the racing world isn't just a random fact; it's a reflection of the Mars family's passions beyond the candy industry. As you unwrap your next Snickers, you'll find there's more to savor than just nougat, caramel, and peanuts. The tale behind this sweet namesake reveals a touching tribute that's bound to make you see the snack in a whole new light.

Key Takeaways

The Snickers candy bar was named after a horse owned by the Mars family.
Snickers was a prized Thoroughbred horse with a championship pedigree in equestrian circles.
The horse's passing occurred shortly before the candy bar's launch in 1930.
Naming the candy after Snickers was a heartfelt tribute to the family's beloved equine companion.

The Mars Family's Equestrian Legacy

Behind the iconic Snickers candy bar lies a rich equestrian heritage that shaped the Mars family's legacy and influenced their confectionery empire.

Frank Mars and his wife Ethel weren't just candy makers; they were passionate horse breeders. In the early 1930s, they established the 3,000-acre Milky Way Farm, a symbol of their dedication to breeding excellence. This expansive property became home to various livestock, including prized Thoroughbred horses.

The Mars family's equestrian legacy extended beyond breeding. Their beloved horse Snickers, after whom the candy bar was named, had a championship pedigree in equestrian circles.

Sadly, Snickers passed away shortly before the candy bar's launch in 1930. By naming their new confection after this cherished horse, Frank and his son Forrest incorporated their equestrian experiences into the Snickers brand, cementing the connection between their two passions.

From Stable to Snack Aisle

Transformation marks the journey of Snickers from a cherished equine companion to a beloved confectionery staple.

You might be surprised to learn that the Snickers candy bar, first produced in 1930, owes its name to a horse owned by Frank and Ethel Mars. The Mars family's equestrian background inspired this unique tribute, as their beloved horse Snickers had recently passed away.

The first SNICKERS Bar was a delightful combination of nougat, caramel, and peanuts coated in milk chocolate. This innovative recipe quickly captured America's taste buds, propelling Snickers to incredible popularity.

Despite a brief naming detour in the UK, where it was known as Marathon Bar, Snickers has since reclaimed its original moniker worldwide. Today, it stands as one of the best-selling candy bars globally, a proof of its successful evolution from stable to snack aisle.

A Sweet Tribute

In a heartfelt homage to their beloved horse, the Mars family christened their new candy bar 'Snickers,' forever intertwining their equestrian passion with confectionery innovation.

The passing of Snickers, a cherished member of their 3,000-acre horse breeding farm, coincided with the candy bar’s launch in 1930. This timing led to a poignant decision: naming their chocolate creation after the departed steed. The Snickers bar quickly grew in popularity, becoming a beloved treat for people of all ages. This unexpected success not only honored the memory of the horse but also marked a significant moment in confectionery history. As the brand expanded, it would eventually become a staple in American culture, much like key events in Bank of America history, shaping the landscape of both industries in unique ways.

You might be surprised to learn that the candy bar was initially produced without a name. The Mars family's choice to honor their horse reflects the deep sentimental value they placed on their equine companions.