Swedish Fish: Not Just a Treaty of Names?
Swedish Fish: Not Just a Treaty of Names?
Swedish Fish is a caramel confectionery popular in the United States, but one must wonder about their authenticity when introduced to a Swedish consumer. These fish-shaped candies bear the name 'Swedish Fish,' yet the story behind their origin is more complex and intriguing than one might assume.
My LTR's Swedish Fish
Mats, my LTR, was one of the first to bring Swedish Fish into the household. He bought the container and left it on the coffee table, inviting endless speculation about the fish's origin. However, despite being addressed in various languages from Swedish and English to Danish, Norwegian, Finnish, French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin, these fish remained silent. Could they be autistic?
Why Not "Swedish Fish" in Sweden?
The reason for the mismatch in naming is simple: Swedish Fish were created by a Swedish company, Malaco, specifically for the American market. This strategic move undersells the emphasis on Swedish heritage and has led to a significant cultural disconnect. In Sweden, similar fish-shaped candies exist; they're called Pastellfisk, which translates to 'Pastel Fish'. These aren’t marketed as Swedish Fish in their home country and are typically available in bulk confectionery.
Sweetness and Saltiness
What sets Swedish Fish apart is the unique combination of sweet and salty flavors. These candies are infamous for being particularly salty, similar to traditional licorice. Many candies in Sweden are salty, but the fish-shaped variety adds an intriguing twist not commonly found in other candy selections. Malaco has even experimented with non-fish-shaped candies, introducing them in the form of coins and racecars, adding extra layers of flavor to the confectionery experience.
A Bit of History
In the 1990s, candy shots were a popular trend. At that time, it was trendy to infuse Swedish Fish with vodka, creating a unique and potent candy experience. Though no longer common, this practice highlights the evolving relationship between traditional Swedish candies and modern blends in American markets.
Where to Find Swedish Fish
Unfortunately, due to the unique marketing strategy of Swedish Fish, individuals living in countries without these candies may find them elusive. While many grocery stores and gas stations in the US and Canada stock these candies, they are not commonly found in Sweden or amongst its citizens.
Additional Resources and Links
For those interested in the history and behind-the-scenes story of Swedish Fish, articles and resources are abundant. A great starting point is the article 'A Brief History of Swedish Fish' from Mental Floss. This article not only explores the origin of the candy but also delves into why it is predominantly marketed in US and Canadian markets. One can also refer to Wikipedia for additional information, though it is advised to use other sources for verification as Wikipedia is not always the most reliable source.
A Brief History of Swedish Fish
Mental Floss provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of the candy’s journey. The article details the creation, marketing strategy, and cultural impact, making it an excellent resource for any confectionery enthusiast.