Chicago Mix is like the Vince Vaughn of popcorn:
Edited Slack conversations discussing Minnesota art and culture are known as Critical DMs and are conducted by members of the mbnews24 News team.
This week Max Sparber, arts editor and Jacob Aloi arts reporter and critic offer their thoughts on Candyland’s Chicago Mix popcorn.
Max Sparber: Okay, get ready for some popcorn.
Jacob Aloi: Even though I am currently in Chicago I was not able to get Chicago Mix. However I believe it’s fine since it’s not truly from Chicago, correct?
Sparber mentioned that the origins of mixed popcorn are uncertain, as this snack has existed for a long time. However, you are right: The name was created in Minnesota. More precisely Candyland can be found in Minneapolis, St. Paul and Stillwater.
Garrett Popcorn named their blend Chicago Mix, leading to a lawsuit from Candyland.
Aloi: “Chicago Mix” sounds smoother than “Twin Cities Mix.” Apologies to the metropolitan area of MSP.
Sparber thought that when Candyland was named, they had that in mind. Chicago Mix simply sounds like the type of popcorn you would be interested in trying.
Let’s explain it.
Aloi describes Candyland’s Chicago Mix as a combination of cheese popcorn, carmel popcorn, and a type of popcorn that is referred to as “seasoned”.
Sparber: The cheddar powder is mixed with popcorn oil and salt to ensure that even Midwesterners who are hesitant about spicy flavors can enjoy it without panicking.
I have had mixed popcorn where they add hot pepper seasoning this is not that.
Aloi: Salt is indeed a seasoning good marketing!
Sparber: No lies here!
Aloi: What I appreciate about the mix is that it is a good blend of savory and sweet, with an extra kick of sodium from the “seasoned” popcorn.
Sparber: Yes, it’s a basic necessity in my household. I consume a large amount of it, my girlfriend also consumes a large amount of it, and our dog constantly begs us to give him as much as he can consume.
Aloi: Is it available throughout the entire year? I used to link it with winter, but now at MPR it’s the preferred snack for meetings.
Sparber: I understand it every time I go by Candyland. Because I am located close to downtown Minneapolis and there is a Candyland store just a few blocks away from our St. Paul office, I frequently visit the store.
I purchase the imitation Chicago Mix found in supermarkets as well. Most have their advantages, but few come with the flavored popcorn, creating a true mix of sweet and savory.
Aloi: Yes, I believe you require the standard ingredients to balance out the bolder tastes.
Sparber: I concur. Even though it is called Candyland, the game still exudes the quintessential Minnesota vibe.
I believe there is a distinctly Minnesotan trait of concealing one’s Minnesotan identity. Just as Prince informing Matt Damon that he resides within his own heart.
Aloi: Chicago Mix is known as the King of snacks.
Sparber: That slogan is really great.
Aloi is the official name for the snack previously known as Chicago Mix.
Sparber: Chicago Mix is a part of you, Matt Damon.
In reality, it resembles Vince Vaughn more. Although born in Minneapolis he claims to be a Chicagoan since that is where he grew up.
Aloi: I believe that Candyland has established itself as the top provider of Chicago Mix, no matter what it may be.
Sparber: According to the law!
I find it odd that the Jucy Lucy was a big hit a few years back but Chicago Mix popcorn doesn’t seem to have the same popularity as a local food favorite.
Aloi: Being known by one’s name. The title is puzzling, making it highly marketable and preventing it from gaining local popularity.
Sparber: If the Jucy Lucy was named the Santa Fe Lucy, no one would be discussing it.
Chicago Mix both gives and takes away.
