Bubble Yum

Bubble Yum: The Soft Bubble Gum Revolution by Hershey

Bubble Yum is a widely popular brand of bubble gum that revolutionized the chewing gum market by introducing the first truly soft and easy-to-chew bubble gum in the United States. It was originally created in 1973 by a creative homemaker in Fisk, Missouri, who called her invention “rubber bubblegum.” She shared it with her son, who distributed it to his school friends, and its popularity soon led to the sale of the recipe to Life Savers, Inc.

History and Development

Bubble Yum was initially test-marketed by Life Savers in 1974 and gained national distribution by 1976. Its unique softness made chewing easier and more enjoyable than the firmer gum alternatives available at the time, such as Bazooka and Double Bubble. This innovation sparked a significant increase in bubble gum sales during the mid-to-late 1970s and inspired competitors to develop their own soft bubble gums, including brands like Bubblicious and Hubba Bubba.

In 1977, a bizarre rumor spread that the secret to Bubble Yum’s soft texture was the addition of spider eggs. This rumor prompted Life Savers to publish a full-page rebuttal in major newspapers, including The New York Times, dispelling the myth and restoring consumer confidence.

Brand Ownership

The brand’s ownership journey began under Life Savers until 1981, when Nabisco acquired Life Savers. In the year 2000, The Hershey Company purchased the Bubble Yum brand from Nabisco, adding it to its extensive confectionery portfolio. Since then, Hershey has continued manufacturing Bubble Yum, proudly maintaining its soft, chewy texture and expanding its market reach worldwide.

Product Features and Varieties

Bubble Yum is well-known for:

• Being the first soft bubble gum introduced to American consumers.

• Its long-lasting flavor and chewability without causing jaw fatigue.

• An array of fruity and vibrant flavors, including original fruit, strawberry, sour apple, grape, and more.

• Featuring the mascot Floyd D. Duck, a punk-style duck who symbolizes the brand’s playful and rebellious spirit and encourages consumers to “blow their own bubble.”

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Bubble Yum has become a household name and is often credited with revitalizing the bubble gum category in the United States. Its distinct softness and taste set new standards in the industry and influenced the development of numerous other soft bubble gums globally. The brand holds a nostalgic value for many who grew up enjoying its unique chew.

Why Choose Bubble Yum?

Bubble Yum offers a fun, soft, and flavorful bubble gum experience that stands apart from traditional gums due to its pioneering softness. It’s ideal for consumers seeking a satisfying chewing experience that’s easy on the jaw, packed with enjoyable fruit flavors, and backed by decades of loved history. With the backing of The Hershey Company, Bubble Yum continues to be a leader in the bubble gum market around the world.