July 15th marks National Gummi Worm Day, a celebration dedicated to the chewy and delightful treats that are universally adored. Typically featuring green and red colors, gummy worms come in various flavors, including both sour and sweet options. These spooky treats rank among the best-selling candies of all time. Celebrate National Gummi Worm Day with your friends and family, savoring the delicious taste of these beloved treats.

History of Gummi Worms

Gummi worms were introduced by the German candy company Trolli in 1981, a spinoff of the already popular gummi bears, which had been invented decades earlier in the 1920s by Hans Riegel, the founder of Haribo. Gummi bears took the world by storm, and by the 1980s, Trolli sought to create a unique variation that would be equally appealing. Thus, gummi worms were born, and they quickly became a favorite for their wacky, worm-like shape, stretchy texture, and delicious fruity flavors.

The creation of gummi worms coincided with a growing trend toward fun and playful foods that sparked the imagination, especially among children. Their unusual shape and vivid colors made gummi worms a favorite for candy lovers and pranksters alike.

Observing Gummi Worm Day in the United Kingdom

While Gummi Worm Day doesn’t have the same official recognition as some other holidays, it is still an occasion that candy enthusiasts in the UK and elsewhere can enjoy. Here are some ways people celebrate Gummi Worm Day:

1. Eating Gummi Worms: The simplest and most popular way to observe the day is, of course, indulging in gummi worms. Whether you prefer classic fruit-flavored worms or sour varieties, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.

2. Creative Desserts: Many people take the celebration a step further by incorporating gummi worms into fun and creative desserts. A popular choice is "dirt cups" or "mud pies," which are made using chocolate pudding, crushed cookies to resemble dirt, and gummi worms arranged on top. This playful treat is especially loved by kids.

3. Candy Art: Some fans of gummi worms use the day as an opportunity to create edible art. With the bright colors and flexible texture of gummi worms, they can be twisted and shaped into fun designs, sculptures, or even candy jewelry.

4. Themed Parties: In the UK, Gummi Worm Day may inspire gummi-themed parties, especially for younger children. These gatherings feature not only gummi worms but also gummi bears, gummi frogs, and other varieties of gummy candies. Gummi-themed games and activities, like "gummi worm fishing" or candy scavenger hunts, can also be part of the fun.

5. Gummi Worm Challenges: Some candy enthusiasts take to social media to participate in challenges, such as seeing how many gummi worms they can eat in a minute or crafting unique recipes using gummi worms as an ingredient. These viral trends bring people together to celebrate the day in a lighthearted and creative way.

Fun Facts About Gummi Worms

• Original Length: The original gummi worms from Trolli were around 5 centimeters long, though some variations today can be much larger or smaller.
• Dual Flavors: Many gummi worms are designed with two different flavors, one on each half of the worm, offering a unique taste experience.
• Sour Varieties: Sour gummi worms are a popular variation and are often coated in a sugary, tangy coating that adds an extra burst of flavor.
• Not Just for Eating: Gummi worms have become a popular ingredient in whimsical recipes, used to top cakes, ice cream sundaes, and even cocktails, adding both flavor and fun to any dish.

Gummi Worms in the UK

The UK has its own long history with chewy, fruity candies, and gummi worms fit right into the country's love for sweets. British confectionery brands offer gummi worms as part of their product ranges, and they are often found in supermarkets, candy shops, and online retailers. Gummi worms are also a popular choice at pic'n'mix stations, where candy lovers can select their favorite treats in bulk.

While Gummi Worm Day might not be a mainstream holiday in the UK, it offers a great opportunity for gummi worm lovers to get creative with their favorite candy. Whether it’s simply enjoying a pack of these wiggly treats or hosting a themed event, the day provides a fun excuse to indulge in something sweet.

Health Considerations

As with all sugary treats, it’s important to enjoy gummi worms in moderation. High in sugar and artificial ingredients, gummi worms should be consumed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of the diet. For those looking for alternatives, there are now gummi worms made with natural flavors and colors, and even sugar-free versions, to cater to different dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Gummi Worm Day on July 15th is a light-hearted celebration of one of the most iconic gummy candies. In the United Kingdom, as elsewhere, it's an opportunity to indulge in the fun of gummi worms, whether by enjoying a pack of the chewy treats or incorporating them into creative desserts. The day brings out the playful side of candy lovers and reminds us that sometimes it’s the simple, quirky things that bring the most joy.