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  • Writer's picturePaul Miller

Candy floss and Popcorn short History


Candyfloss, is a type of spun sugar confectionery that is often sold at fairs, circuses, and other outdoor events. It is made by spinning sugar and food coloring at high speeds, causing it to solidify in mid-air and form thin strands that are then gathered up onto a cone or stick.



The origins of candy floss can be traced back to the late 19th century, when a dentist named William Morrison and a confectioner named John C. Wharton invented a machine that could spin sugar into thin strands. The machine, which they called the "fairy floss" machine, made its debut at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, Missouri, where it quickly became a sensation.

At first, cotton candy was considered a luxury item and was only available at high-end events. However, as the cost of production decreased and the machines became more widely available, cotton candy became a popular treat at fairs, carnivals, and other outdoor events. In the years that followed, cotton candy evolved to include a variety of flavors and colors, including pink, blue, and purple.


Today, candy floss remains a beloved treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. While the machines used to make it have evolved over the years, the basic process remains the same, and cotton candy continues to be a staple of outdoor events and festivals.


Popcorn, on the other hand, has been around for much longer. Archaeological evidence suggests that popcorn was first grown in Mexico over 5000 years ago. The kernels were popped by heating them over an open flame, and popcorn quickly became a popular snack food throughout the Americas. Popcorn was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus, and by the 19th century, popcorn had become a popular snack food in the United States.

The first popcorn machine was invented in 1885 by Charles Cretors, a Chicago-based confectioner. Cretors' machine used steam to pop the kernels, and it was originally intended for use in candy stores. However, the machine was so successful that Cretors eventually began selling it to movie theaters, where it quickly became a staple snack food.


Today, both candyfloss and popcorn are popular treats that are enjoyed all over the world. They are often found at carnivals, fairs, and other events, and are also commonly sold at movie theaters and sporting events.

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