Last updated 3 months ago | Originally Published: November 8, 2023

Learn Everything About Junior Mints Including Flavors and Brand History

If you’re fond of the refreshing combination of mint and chocolate, you’ve likely come across Junior Mints. This iconic candy has been satisfying sweet cravings since 1949. 

In today’s post, we aim to be your go-to source for all things Junior Mints. From its historical roots to its production methods and the variety of flavors available, we’ve compiled all the essential details below.

With more than 50 years of experience in the candy business, we at Candy Retailer are committed to sharing our extensive knowledge with you. We provide accurate, up-to-date information on all the candies and snacks we offer, and Junior Mints is no exception!

Our primary objective is to foster a community of candy lovers like you, where you can share your thoughts, stories, and even suggestions about the products we feature in our candy store.

Feel free to engage in the comments section below; your input is valuable. We’ll remind you to join the conversation again at the end of this post. Thank you for being an integral part of our community. Stay tuned as we explore the ins and outs of Junior Mints.

The True Story About Junior Mints

Junior Mints have been a staple in American candy culture since their introduction in 1949. The candy was created by the James O. Welch Company, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

James O. Welch, born in North Carolina and a University of North Carolina alumnus, founded the company in 1927. Charles Vaughan, a food chemist, was the inventive mind behind Junior Mints.

The candy was initially named after a popular Broadway show at the time, “Junior Miss,” which ran from 1941 to 1943.

Ownership of the brand has changed hands multiple times over the years. In 1963, Nabisco acquired the brand, later selling it to Warner-Lambert Company in 1988. Finally, in 1993, Tootsie Roll Industries took over the reins, and they still run the show today. 

Despite these changes, the production remains in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at a factory of Cambridge Brands, a Tootsie Roll Industries subsidiary.

The candy has also made its way into popular culture, notably featuring in a classic episode of the TV show “Seinfeld,” where a Junior Mint humorously drops into a surgery patient who later recovers miraculously. 

Today, Tootsie Roll Industries produces over 15 million Junior Mints daily. The brand has also expanded to include variations like Junior Caramels and a limited edition called “Inside Outs,” among others.

The Making of Junior Mints

Creating Junior Mints involves a captivating blend of traditional and modern candy-making methods. Initially, a mixture of sugar and corn syrup forms the base. High temperatures liquefy this blend, which is then cooled rapidly on a giant wheel to solidify it for the next steps.

Whipping mint and other undisclosed ingredients into the cooled mixture results in the candy’s signature creamy texture. Specialized machines take this white paste and shape the centers of the Junior Mints. These machines are so exclusive that their inner workings remain a closely guarded secret.

Conveyor belts transport the formed centers to the panning room. In this space, large machines resembling clothes dryers toss the centers while showering them with dark chocolate. This process gives the candies their iconic outer layer. A final glaze adds the characteristic shine to each piece.

Remarkably, the recipe for Junior Mints has stood the test of time, remaining unchanged over the years. Production continues in the original Cambridge, Massachusetts plant, churning out more than 15 million pieces daily. Packaging, however, has evolved to include larger, king-size boxes in response to theater demands.

Through this intricate process, each Junior Mint delivers a burst of minty freshness encased in a layer of rich chocolate, captivating taste buds for over seven decades. You can also check out this YouTube video we found on how these chocolate mints are made. 

The Current Flavors and Products Offered By Junior Mints

Next up, we’ll introduce you to the current flavors and products that add new dimensions to this classic candy. So, if you’re a seasoned fan or new to the Junior Mints family, then you’ll be intrigued to learn about the latest variations. 

Each one offers a unique spin on the timeless mint and chocolate duo, giving you fresh ways to enjoy this beloved candy. Stay tuned as we reveal these enticing options, all now available at Candy Retailer! Keep reading to discover them more. 

Junior Mints

For those who find themselves reaching for that familiar green and black box more often than not, consider the 24ct box. Priced at $30.79, it’s a bulk purchase that ensures you’re never without your favorite mint-chocolate combo. Ideal for social events, office candy dishes, or simply to keep your pantry stocked, this box offers both convenience and value.

Junior Mints Theater Box

Sometimes, a small treat can make a big difference. That’s where the 3.5oz box comes in. For the modest price of $2.29, it offers just enough to satisfy your craving without going overboard. It’s the perfect size for a solo treat, fitting easily into pockets, purses, or desk drawers for a quick snack whenever you need it.

Junior Mints Peppermint Crunch

 

If you want to shake things up a bit, the Peppermint Crunch version is a must-try. At $2.59 for a 3.5oz box, it offers a unique texture that complements the classic flavors perfectly. The added crunch brings an exciting element to each bite, making it a memorable treat for yourself or as a gift.

Junior Mints Box

For the die-hard fans, the 72ct box, priced at $20.29, is a dream come true. It’s an economical way to ensure you’re never without your go-to candy. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply like to keep a stash for yourself, this box has you covered.

Junior Mints Deluxe Dark Chocolate

For those who enjoy the finer things in life, this 72ct box offers a richer chocolate experience for $17.89. The deluxe dark chocolate coating adds a layer of sophistication to the classic mint filling, making each bite a luxurious experience.

Junior Mints Holiday Minis

The holiday season just got a little brighter with this 4.5oz bag for $3.09. These mini-sized mints are a festive addition to any holiday gathering. Their smaller size makes them perfect for sharing, and their seasonal packaging adds a touch of holiday spirit.

Junior Mints Valentine Hearts

Love takes on a minty form with this 3.5oz box for $2.69. These heart-shaped mints are a sweet way to show someone you care. They’re perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any day you want to make a little more special.

Answering the FAQs About Junior Mints

Curiosity and candy go hand in hand, and when it comes to Junior Mints, questions abound. In this next section, we’ll address the most frequently asked questions about these beloved minty chocolates. 

From inquiries about ingredients to questions of origin, we understand that knowledge enhances enjoyment. So, let’s clear up some common curiosities and provide you with the insights you seek about these popular candies.

Are Junior Mints Vegan?

Regrettably, Junior Mints do not meet vegan criteria.

Are Junior Mints Gluten-Free?

Contrary to some online discussions, Junior Mints aren’t gluten-free, as confirmed by the brand’s official stance.

Who Makes Junior Mints?

Tootsie Roll Industries has been the proud producer of Junior Mints since 1993.

Are Junior Mints Dairy-Free?

Despite some online sources suggesting otherwise, the official word from the brand indicates the potential presence of dairy, leading us to conclude that Junior Mints are not dairy-free.

Are Junior Mints Halal?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a straightforward answer to this question. While they’re generally accepted by the Muslim community and considered safe to consume, they lack official Halal certification, which might be a consideration for some.

Are Junior Mints Kosher?

Yes, Junior Mints carry the Kosher OUD certification and are 100% Kosher, as evidenced by the logo on their packaging.

Our Final Thoughts On Junior Mints Candy

In closing, Junior Mints stands out as the premier choice for movie-goers across the United States, a testament to their status as the top theater box candy. 

This beloved minty treat has accompanied film fans for generations, offering a unique blend of dark chocolate and refreshing mint that’s become a part of the collective cinema experience.

As the curtains close on our complete look at Junior Mints, we celebrate the candy that has become a staple in theaters and homes alike, consistently chosen as the go-to candy for those seeking something sweet, chocolatey, and minty!