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Nothing triggers our childhood memories easier or faster than candy. It takes us back to the time when we would sneak it, hoard it or beg for it. 

Grown-ups used it as a reward, and why wouldn’t they? Even the U.S. Military passed it out to kids in liberated Europe after WWII as a way to win hearts and minds. Did you know that the individually wrapped candy bar was invented after a request from the Department of Defense as a way to get quick energy for soldiers?

The history of the confectionery industry — including Minnesota’s own beloved candy company Pearson’s — is full of intrigue, brand wars and … calories.   

Host Angela Davis talked to Steve Almond, author of “Candyfreak,” as well as the vice president of operations at Pearson’s and a chocolatier from Willmar, Minn. 

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Author

It’s summer and time to talk about treats. First up: candy! Is there anything more nostalgic than sweets? What’s the taste of your childhood? Host Angela Davis talks about the 10-cent Hershey bar she remembers as a kid and asks a candy historian and two local candy-makers about everything candy. 

MPR News with Angela Davis - It’s summer and time to talk about treats. First up: candy! Is there anything more nostalgic than sweets? What’s the taste of your childhood? Host Angela Davis talks about the 10-cent Hershey bar she remembers as a kid and asks a candy historian and two local candy-makers about everything candy. 

We want candy!

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