Toddler Math: Conversation Hearts

The modern Sweethearts Conversation Hearts, which have become an American icon, dates back to the early 1900's. Some of the original sayings that can be found in boxes today include Be Mine, Be Good, Be True, My Man, Kiss Me, and Sweet Talk. In the early 1990's, NECCO decided to add new sayings each year. Thousands of suggestions are compiled every year from candy lovers and school kids around the globe. The recipe has remained basically unchanged. Conversation Hearts are made of 90 percent sugar, a dash of corn syrup, gelatin, gums, and artificial colors and flavorings. Once the dough is rolled out, imprinted with a saying and then stamped out in the familiar heart-shape, it goes through a 45-minute drying cycle to reach its semi-hard consistency.

To meet the demand for Valentines Day, NECCO produces approximately eight billion candies throughout the year. The entire production, more than 100,000 pounds a day, sells out in just six weeks.