Company & Product FAQs

We pride ourselves on great customer service. See the most frequently asked questions for our company and brands.


Who owns Spangler Candy Company?

We are a family-owned privately held candy company. We have been in the candy business since 1906 - founded by Arthur Spangler.

Where can I get information on your company for a report?

Thank you for your interest in Spangler Candy. Please visit our website at spanglercandy.com for information about our company. To learn more about the candy industry in general, visit the National Confectioners Association website at CandyUSA.com.

Do you offer public tours of Spangler Candy Company?

Unfortunately we do not offer public tours of the company! Our Store-Museum is closed until further notice due to Covid restrictions.  For details, and information, visit this link: tour-store-museum, or follow the Spangler Candy Store and Museum on Facebook.

Where can I buy Spangler products?

We encourage you to support retailers in your area that carry Spangler products. Find retailers in your area. This list may not be all-inclusive and is subject to change. If they do not stock Spangler products, ask them to do so. If you cannot find our products, you can order directly from our online candy store.
For distributors or retailers looking for larger quantities, please contact a Spangler broker in your area. If you are a local or regional retailer, email us at info@spanglercandy.com, and we will reply with the nearest candy distributor in your area that carries Spangler products.

I have a new product idea for your company - where should I send it?

It is the policy of Spangler Candy not to accept unsolicited ideas because of the difficulty in distinguishing and separating them from similar ideas generated internally. We suggest you contact our trade organization, the NCA: email: info@candyusa.com, website: www.candyusa.com, address: 1101 30th St NW, Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone: 202-534-1440, and fax: 202-337-0637.

How can I get a donation from your company?

We receive a tremendous number of requests from worthwhile causes, and therefore have guidelines governing our support. In most cases our donations are limited to local area events and organizations that meet our guidelines.

If you would like to submit a request for a donation, please go to our Contact Us page, click on the Donation Requests button, and fill out the form at least 4 weeks prior to the event for consideration.

Dum-Dums can be purchased at most food, drug, mass, and club retailers. Find retailers in your local area or visit our online candy store to purchase your favorite Spangler Candy items.

Are Spangler products allergen-free?

Dum-Dums, Saf-T-Pops, Swirl Saf-T-Pops, and Candy Canes are free of the top common allergens. The ingredients, as well as the processing aids (such as release lubricants), do not contain any peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, fish, shellfish, wheat, or gluten. These products are processed on dedicated lines. Learn more about Spangler Candy allergen-free products.

Are Spangler re-bagged items still allergen-free?

In today’s candy market it is a regular practice for retailers to have their own private label bag. In most of these situations, we do not pack these items ourselves but the retailer or a customer ofours purchases and repackages our items. The allergen-free claim may be different as these companies often package other items containing peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, wheat gluten, eggs, fish, shellfish, or soy in their facilities. Trace elements of these allergens could come into contact with our items.

To be confident that you are getting an allergen-free Spangler candy item, check the back of the bag for the allergen statement. Spangler Candy bags manufactured and packaged in our facility will have all of the following identifiers:

(1) Current Spangler allergen statement: "This product does not contain peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, or gluten. It has been manufactured on dedicated equipment."

(2) Address line on the back of the bag: Manufactured by Spangler Candy Company, Bryan, Ohio, 43506 USA.

(3) UPC code begins with “0 30800”. This is the code for our manufacturing facility.

Families with allergic children take great care to determine the origin of the food their children consume to protect against an allergic reaction. Families should ask the origin of any candy or food product that is in an open container to ensure what their children consume is free of allergens.

If you have any questions, please contact our Quality Assurance department through email at info@spanglercandy.com or toll-free 888-636-4221.

Are Spangler products gluten-free?

Dum-Dums, Saf-T-Pops, Swirl Saf-T-Pops, and Candy Canes do not contain the gluten protein found in wheat, barley, rye, or oats. We have contacted our suppliers on the ingredients we use, including sugar, corn syrup, citric, malic, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, artificial flavors & colors, starch, release agents, and processing aids. These products do not contain the gluten protein that causes a problem for people with Celiac Sprue. Learn more about Spangler Candy gluten-free products.

Are Spangler products kosher?

Most Spangler products, including Dum-Dums, Saf-T-Pops, Spangler Candy Canes, Jelly Belly Canes, Dum-Dums Candy Canes, and Smarties Candy Canes, are certified kosher by the Orthodox Union (OU symbol).

Do Spangler products contain melamine or phthalates?

Spangler Candy products do not contain melamine or phthalates. Further, all of Spangler Candy's ingredients are purchased from factories located in the U.S. and under the control of the FDA. Spangler Candy does not purchase any ingredients from China. View our certification regarding melamine.

What kind of sugar do you use in your products?

We use either beet or cane sugar in our manufacturing process.

What is the shelf life of Spangler Candy products?

Spangler Candy Canes, Saf-T-Pops and Dum-Dums have a shelf life of 36 months while Circus Peanuts last for 18 months. These dates are designated by the "Best By" or Julian Date on the package.

Do you have catalogs, sales brochures or price lists?

We have price lists for our Regular Line, Valentine, Halloween, and Christmas lines. Please e-mail us with your request, noting the type of products you are looking for, at info@spanglercandy.com.

I am from outside the U.S. How do I get export information?

Spangler distributes its products in Canada and Puerto Rico through brokers. Other exports are handled through our export distributor. For contact information, call Customer Service toll free at 1-888-636-4221.

I received a Savannah Blueberry Pop that says "Winner"...What do I do next?

The Savannah Blueberry Dum-Dums wrapper was intended to announce Savannah Blueberry as the winner of our 2009 Pop Star contest. This pop was the result of an online contest in which consumers could enter a game code from specially marked bags of Dum-Dums, select a flavor, and enter a name to have that flavor created just for them. The winner, Savannah, chose Blueberry, so the flavor created for her was "Savannah Blueberry".

Where can I find Astro Pops?

In May 2010, Astro Pop® LLC announced the acquisition of the rights for Astro Pops® from Spangler Candy of Bryan, Ohio. Bee International is now the exclusive distributor for Astro Pops in the United States. View more information on Astro Pops, or their Facebook fan page.

In 1987, Spangler Candy acquired the Astro Pops Brand from the Nellson Candy Company of Los Angeles California. Astro Pops, rocket-shaped lollipops, were reputed to be the longest lasting lollipop on earth. In September of 2004, Spangler discontinued the product line.


What is the history of Dum-Dums, and how did it get its name?

Dum-Dums were originated by Akron Candy Company in Bellevue, Ohio, in 1924. A company executive named the ball-shaped candy on a stick and figured Dum-Dums was a word any child could say. Spangler Candy purchased Dum-Dums in 1953 from Akron Candy Company and moved the operation to Bryan, Ohio.

How are Dum-Dums made?

Dum-Dums are made from a mixture of sugar and corn syrup. After it is cooked, it is placed in a large mixer and the color and flavor are added. After these ingredients are mixed together, the batch of candy moves through a batch roller and press which forms the head of the Dum-Dum and inserts the stick. After the candy cools, it is wrapped and sent by a conveyor belt to an area where it is packaged for shipment. Watch how Dum Dums are made.

How many flavors of Dum-Dums are there?

Regular bags of Dum-Dums contain 16 flavors + the Mystery Flavor®. Dum-Dums also come in a variety of other seasonal flavors in specially marked bags.

Why are codes printed on the bottom of Dum-Dums wrappers?

Our Save Wraps Program is no longer available. You may still find codes along the bottom of Dum-Dums wrappers, but the program was concluded on May 31, 2020.

What is the Dum-Dums' Mystery Flavor?

The Mystery Flavor® is, well, a mystery! We can only reveal that the Mystery Flavor continuously changes and is not limited to current Dum-Dums flavors. It's up to Dum-Dums fans to guess the flavor of these mysterious pops.

Can I buy just one particular flavor or color of Dum-Dums?

The answer is yes! We sell packages of single flavor and single color Dum-Dums in many flavors/colors through our onliine store: spanglercandy.com. Look under Lollipops-Color Party and Original Mix Single Flavors for your preferred flavor or color.

How do you come up with new flavors of Dum-Dums?

Dum-Dums flavors are chosen based on input from consumers, on-line flavor votes, results of taste tests, and food trends.

Can you send me some free Dum-Dums?

Unfortunately, we are unable to send out free Dum-Dums or samples of our new flavors. You can purchase Dum-Dums at many local retailers, or through our Online Candy Store at spanglercandy.com. Many fine businesses also purchase Dum-Dums and give them away as a thank-you to their customers. If your local business does not give out Dum-Dums, ask them to carry "America's Favorite Giveaway Lollipop®".

Which current flavors of Dum-Dums do not contain yellow 5 coloring?

You will need to select a specific item or flavor in our online store, and then review the Nutrition tab for specific ingredients.  Please be aware that all of the Dum-Dums are manufactured on the same equipment.

Which current flavors of Dum-Dums do not contain red coloring?

You will need to select a specific item or flavor in our online store, and then review the Nutrition tab for specific ingredients. Please be aware that all of the Dum-Dums are manufactured on the same equipment.

What positive nutrition facts can I share about Dum-Dums?

Here are a few positive nutrition facts about Dum-Dums.

  • Each Dum-Dums Pop has less than 25 calories and no fat.
  • One way to help prevent obesity is to exercise "portion control". Dum-Dums are the perfect size for a quick, high-flavor treat without consuming too much.
  • It is important to allow treats, such as candy and other snacks, in moderation rather than eliminate them. Children who learn the importance of balanced eating will be better-equipped to manage their own diet as adults.
  • Candy does not contribute a large percentage of the fat and sugar in the American diet. In fact, less than two percent of the fat and ten percent of the sugar in our diets are supplied by candy. Most of the fat actually comes from the high-fat animal products we eat. The main sources of sugar in America's diets are sugary beverages, baked goods, and frozen desserts. (Candy Myths from candyusa.org web site).
  • Dum-Dums do not contain any of the top common food allergens, including peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, or gluten. Dum-Dums are manufactured on dedicated equipment.
  • Dum-Dums are kosher approved by the Orthodox Union.

Why aren't all flavors in every bag of Dum-Dums?

Unfortunately, missing flavors occasionally happen due to the nature of the packing process. Larger bags generally have the best flavor variety. Occasionally, production of a particular flavor may be briefly interrupted. This is a rare occurrence and generally lasts only a few minutes affecting a very limited number of bags. If you are looking for a specific favorite flavor, check through the window on the bag for a quick search before you purchase. If you are unsure if that bag contains your favorite flavor, or you want to buy a larger quantity, you can purchase a bag of just your favorite flavor on this website.

Why can I no longer find my favorite Dum-Dums flavor?

We keep the core and unique Dum-Dums flavors in the mix, and rotate new flavors in periodically in response to consumer requests and taste test results. We also make special holiday mixes with some other unique flavors; look on this website for details. If you can’t find your favorite flavor, and wish to see it back in the mix, be sure to vote for it at dumdumpops.com/vote-for-flavors.

Why aren't Dum-Dums bigger? Why are Dum-Dums small?

Most of our customers feel that Dum-Dums are just the right size for a perfect treat. They are quick, convenient, and packed with flavor. They're just right for kids (and big kids too)! One positive way to maintain good nutrition is to exercise "portion control". Each lollipop has fewer than 26 calories and no fat!

Why don't you make Dum-Dums with plastic sticks?

We believe paper sticks are safer for children, as plastic sticks can break, creating sharp edges and small pieces. In the manufacturing process, a broken plastic stick could allow plastic pieces to get into the candy. For these reasons, we have continued to use paper sticks. We add a small amount of food grade wax to the sticks to minimize the stick getting soggy.


How many Saf-t-pop flavors are there?

Regular Saf-T-Pops come in Cherry, Grape, Orange, and Apple. Swirl Saf-T-Pops come in Blueberry & Vanilla, Orange & Vanilla, Strawberry & Vanilla, and Cherry & Vanilla.

What makes a Saf-T-Pop safe?

Saf-T-Pops have a soft fiber-cord loop handle, which is safer should a child fall with a pop in his or her mouth. Saf-T-Pops are individually wrapped, which keeps the product free from dirt and contamination. Saf-T-Pops are also free of major allergens (see our allergen FAQ). However, just like with any food consumed by small children, it is important that the appropriate level of adult supervision is present during consumption.


How many calories in a Spangler Candy Cane?

We manufacture different sizes of candy canes. The caloric value will vary with the size of the candy cane. Listed are the different weights and caloric values. 1.0 oz - 110 calories .50 oz - 55 calories .15 oz - 17 calories. For more details, visit a specific product in our store and view the Nutrition tab.

What is the best way to store candy canes for next Christmas? Can I freeze them?

The best way to store hard candy for a length of time is to place it in a zipper lock bag and store in a dry place. Do not store candies in the freezer or refrigerator, as the moisture is too high.

Do you make sugar-free candy canes?

Unfortunately, we don’t make sugar-free candy canes.  We did a few years back, but the sales were too low to keep it. 


What is the flavor of Circus Peanuts? Do they contain peanuts?

Circus Peanuts are peanut-shaped marshmallows; they contain absolutely no peanuts and are actually banana flavored! Spangler's Marshmallow Circus Peanuts are a delicious fat-free candy.

What kind of gelatin do you use in your Circus Peanuts?

Our Marshmallow Circus Peanuts contain a pork gelatin. They are manufactured on their own candy line, separate from our other candy products.

Is there any way I can soften Circus Peanuts if they become hard?

You can soften hard Circus Peanuts if you put them in the microwave for approximately 8-10 seconds, (microwave times may vary).

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