Did you know that M&M's were created for American soldiers during World War II? Soldiers needed chocolate that wouldn't easily melt in their hands or spoil easily due to the temperature and humidity conditions they faced.
That's how the Mars company created M&M's in 1941, initially called "Pillows of Power" and sold exclusively to the military. M&M's were then marketed to the general public in 1945 and quickly became one of the most popular candies in the world.
During World War II, M&M's were distributed to American soldiers in their combat rations. M&M's were particularly popular with soldiers because they were practical to carry and would not easily melt in their hands or in their bags, even in hot weather.
In fact, soldiers often used M&M's as currency with local populations in the regions where they were deployed. M&M's were also used in negotiations with village chiefs to obtain information about enemy movements.
M&M's were also used in rescue missions for Allied airmen who had been shot down behind enemy lines. M&M's were often included in survival kits distributed to airmen, as they provided a source of energy and comfort.
Finally, M&M's also played an important role in the war effort as an exported product to help finance military spending. During the war, Mars exported millions of pounds of M&M's to Europe for American soldiers and local populations.
Today, M&M's are one of the most popular candies in the world, available in a wide variety of flavors and colors. But their history as practical candy for soldiers during World War II remains an important part of their heritage.