For years, chocolate enthusiasts have savored the delightful offerings from M&M, embracing everything from caramel chocolates to peanut butter-flavored bites. The brand, known for its candy characters, underwent a woke makeover in 2023, resonating with consumers amid the prevailing political climate. However, a London-based TikTok user, Claire Dinhut, recently sent shockwaves through the global candy-loving community with her revelation about the real meaning behind M&M and the unexpected “family drama” associated with it.
According to Dinhut, M&M stands for Mars and Murrie, the names of chocolatiers and business collaborators Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie. These two individuals joined forces to create the iconic candy-coated chocolates that have captured the hearts of candy lovers worldwide.
Both Mars and Murrie hailed from esteemed candy-making backgrounds, with Bruce being the son of Hershey executive William Murrie, and Forrest being the son of Mars founder Frank C. Mars.
Dinhut’s TikTok revelation stirred widespread interest in the candy brand, garnering over 9,000 likes and counting.
As Dinhut unfolded the candy’s history, she disclosed that the M&M saga began with Forrest E. Mars’s falling out with his father, the original owner of the Mars candy brand. Seeking independence, Forrest collaborated with another candy maker to create a confection that would captivate the American palate.
The story took an interesting turn when Forrest, reluctant to share his innovative idea with his father, approached Hershey’s for collaboration. Hershey’s executive Bruce Murrie agreed to the partnership, but on the condition that Forrest would work with his son.
The collaboration bore fruit as the duo created the beloved candy-coated chocolates. To immortalize their achievement, they named the confection M&M’s after themselves, with “M” representing Mars and Murrie.
Dinhut highlighted the historical significance of M&M’s, emphasizing that its inception coincided with World War II. The candy secured a deal with the government to be included in every soldier’s bag, contributing to its widespread popularity during the war.
In essence, the M&M’s brand, often associated with delectable treats, has a rich backstory steeped in family dynamics and unexpected collaborations, making it more than just a beloved candy but a tale of innovation and resilience.