S4 Ep 22: The History Of Hi-Chew With Guest Zavior Phillips

In this episode, I had the delight of chatting with the hilarious and talented comedian, actor, and writer, Zavior Phillips. Together, we embarked on a tangy journey to uncover the fascinating world of Hi-Chew.

Unveiling a Chewy Obsession

Zavior knows his way around a candy aisle. His favorite? The uniquely textured, intensely flavored Hi-Chew! He confesses his love for chewy, fruity candies developed in college, where daily indulgence in Hi-Chew became a comforting habit. "Hi-Chew was like my daily treat during college tough days," Zavior chuckles, recounting how this candy became his sweet escape.

The Story Behind the Sweetness

But what makes Hi-Chew more than just a pack of candy? To appreciate its chewy magic, we delve into its creation story, which began with a relentless dreamer, TAICHIRO MORINAGA. Born in 1865 in Japan and orphaned by age seven, Morinaga's life seemed an unending series of challenges. Yet, his spirit was unyielding, leading him to the United States in 1887, where he found a revelation in the form of a simple candy.

Back in Japan, Morinaga pioneered a confectionary revolution, evolving Western chewing gum into a socially acceptable candy that didn't require spitting out – an important cultural consideration. Enter Hi-Chew, perfectly blending Eastern knowledge and Western inspiration, offering a tantalizing chew without losing decorum.

Candy Craftsmanship and Global Reach

What sets Hi-Chew apart is its carefully crafted dual-layered structure—each chew a vibrant, fruity revelation. With high-quality ingredients, meticulous engineering mimicking real fruit taste, and enamoring both local and global markets, Hi-Chew's impact is undeniable. From local Japanese delights to unique international flavors, the candy captivates tastebuds and bridges cultures.

A massive production facility in North Carolina now hums with activity, churning out a staggering 2 billion pieces annually for the U.S. market alone, ensuring this delightful chew reaches fans worldwide.

Cultural Phenomenon and Pop Culture Icon

Hi-Chew isn’t just a confectionary phenomenon; it’s a pop culture icon. Celebrities and sports teams alike have joined the fan club. It even inspired a fun and whimsical mascot, Chewbie, engaging audiences with playful charm and candy-inspired language.

This exploration of Hi-Chew has been sweet in every sense. Learning about its history, its cultural significance, and discovering its unique flavors and textures has deepened our appreciation for this candy. And thanks to Zavior's candid love story with Hi-Chew, we’ve been reminded of how the simplest treats can bring both joy and nostalgia.

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