Teaberry is a flavor unlike any other—refreshing, slightly minty, and rich with nostalgia. But where does this distinctive flavor come from, and how did it become such a cherished part of candy history? Let’s take a journey into the fascinating world of Teaberry.
What is Teaberry?
Teaberry comes from the plant Gaultheria procumbens, a small, creeping evergreen native to North America. Known as American Wintergreen, this plant produces bright red berries and aromatic leaves. Indigenous peoples and early settlers used teaberry leaves for medicinal purposes, brewing them into teas to relieve headaches, fevers, and aches—a tradition that inspired the name "teaberry."
The berries themselves have a mild, wintergreen flavor, and their oil (called methyl salicylate) became a key ingredient in early flavoring for chewing gum, toothpaste, and, of course, candy.
Teaberry’s Rise in Popularity
Teaberry truly gained widespread attention in the 20th century, thanks to its use in chewing gum. Introduced in the 1900s, Clark’s Teaberry Gum became a sensation, offering a cool, minty flavor with a touch of sweetness. The gum even earned a place in pop culture with the catchy “Teaberry Shuffle” commercials in the 1960s.
But did you know that Clark’s Candy Company, the creator of Teaberry Gum, was based in Pittsburgh? As a business just 40 miles north of Pittsburgh, at Hard Tack N’at we take pride in this local connection. Teaberry is not only a delicious flavor but also a piece of regional history—a link to the innovative candy-making legacy of Western Pennsylvania.
Why Teaberry is Special Today
Teaberry holds a special place in the hearts of candy lovers. For many, it’s a nostalgic reminder of childhood, while for others, it’s an exciting discovery of a flavor they’ve never tried before. It bridges generations, offering a connection to the past while remaining as delightful today as it was decades ago.
At Hard Tack N’at, we’re proud to keep the tradition of Teaberry alive, crafting it in small batches with old-fashioned techniques to ensure it “tastes just like you remember.”
Try Teaberry for Yourself
Whether you’ve loved Teaberry for years or are ready to give it a try, now is the perfect time to indulge. We’re kicking off 2024 by celebrating Teaberry as our very first Flavor of the Week, complete with special offers just for you!
Explore the distinctive taste of Teaberry and join us in celebrating this one-of-a-kind flavor that continues to capture hearts.
Stay tuned for more flavors and promotions throughout the year!
