DOTS candy is a timeless treat that comes in an array of delicious flavors. This chewy confectionery has been delighting taste buds since 1945 when it was first created by Mason and later acquired by Tootsie Roll Industries in 1972. At their Chicago facility, Tootsie Roll Industries produces over four billion gumdrops each year.
These sweet delights are not just flavorful; they are also vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, peanut-free, and kosher. As one of America’s favorite gumdrops, DOTS are available in several varieties, including Original, Sour, Tropical, and the unique Yogurt Dots.
Flavors and Varieties
DOTS candies are available in a wide selection of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth. The classic “Original Dots” flavors include cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and strawberry. These chewy gumdrops are well-loved for their vibrant taste. Sour Dots add an extra zesty twist, featuring flavors such as cherry, lemon, orange, grape, and green apple, boosted with added citric acid.
Fun and Unique Varieties
The Tropical Dots introduce more adventurous flavors like Island Nectar, Wild Mango, Grapefruit Cooler, Carambola Melon, and Paradise Punch. For a creamy twist, try the Yogurt Dots, available in Banana, Orange, Blackberry, and Lemon-Lime.
Don’t miss the Crows, which are the iconic black licorice gumdrops that date back to the 1890s. Originally known as “Black Rose,” their name has become synonymous with nostalgia.
Special Holiday Flavors
DOTS adds festive cheer with special holiday-themed varieties. For Halloween, you can enjoy Ghost Dots, which feature the Original Dots flavors but are colorless, leaving you guessing their tastes. Bat Dots have a black coloring and a blood orange flavor, while Candy Corn Dots mimic the beloved fall treat.
During Christmas, you can find Holiday Dots in exciting mixes like Cherry/Green Apple and Lime/Strawberry. If you prefer bold flavors, don’t miss the Lumps of Coal Dots in Blackberry and Black Cherry. For Valentine’s Day, Valentine Dots offer a delightful vanilla base topped with Cherry or Passion Fruit flavors.
During Easter, Easter Dots are available in Blueberry, Lemon, Lime, Cherry, and Orange flavors. This year, Springtime Dots were introduced, featuring Grape, Mango, Strawberry, and Pineapple, perfect for celebrating the season.
Discontinued and Promotional Varieties
Throughout the years, DOTS has released various seasonal and limited-edition flavors. Spice Dots were available in the 1980s, while Wild Berry Dots, known for their tart, crunchy coating, were phased out in 2007. In 2008, Dots Elements made a brief appearance, featuring flavors like pomegranate and wintergreen, but are no longer produced.
The Hot Dots, or Cinnamon Dots, were briefly available from 2004 to 2006. Patriotic Dots and Assorted Reds Dots showcased vanilla tops with flavors like strawberry, blueberry, and fruit punch. There were also unique flavors like pink grapefruit and watermelon, marketed as “sour slices.”
In 2022, Watermelon Dots were added, featuring a red top and green base that resemble a watermelon. The following year, Assorted Lemonade Dots were introduced, providing a refreshing mix of lemonade, blue raspberry lemonade, cherry lemonade, strawberry lemonade, and limeade flavors.
Ingredients and Dietary Information
DOTS are made from a blend of corn syrup, sugar, modified food starch, malic acid, natural and artificial flavors, sodium citrate, and food colorings. They cater to various dietary requirements as they are vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, peanut-free, and kosher.
Whether you’re a fan of classic candies or seasonal treats, DOTS has a flavor to satisfy your cravings.
The Allure of Nostalgia
The lasting appeal of DOTS candy is partly due to its nostalgic connections. Many people recall fun childhood moments of sharing a box with friends or sneaking a handful from a candy jar. The distinctive packaging and recognizable shape make DOTS a beloved staple, evoking feelings of comfort and familiarity. Their versatility also adds to their charm, allowing them to be used in creative recipes like DOTS-themed cookies or as colorful decorations for holiday gingerbread houses.
A Candy for Every Occasion
One of the standout features of DOTS is their ability to fit into any celebration. From Halloween to Christmas, Valentine’s Day to Easter, there is a DOTS flavor to suit every occasion. This dedication to offering seasonal varieties keeps the brand fresh and exciting, allowing fans to eagerly anticipate new flavors each year. For many candy enthusiasts, the tradition of collecting and trying each new variety adds to the brand’s loyal following.
With their vegan-friendly ingredients and extensive flavor selection, DOTS remains a cherished treat for both children and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are All DOTS Candy Flavors Available Year-Round?
Not every DOTS candy flavor is available throughout the year. Some seasonal editions are only offered during specific times or for a limited duration. For instance, unique flavors like Hot DOTS and Patriotic DOTS were only available for a short time, while classic options are typically more consistently stocked.
Where Can I Purchase DOTS Candy in Bulk?
You can buy DOTS candy in bulk from various sources. Online retailers like Amazon and specialty candy sites usually offer large quantities. Additionally, you may find bulk options at wholesale retailers such as Costco or Sam’s Club.
What Ingredients Are Found in DOTS Candy?
DOTS candies are made from straightforward ingredients, including sugar, corn syrup, and natural or artificial flavors. They also contain modified food starch and color additives for their vibrant hues.
Have Any DOTS Candy Flavors Been Discontinued Recently?
Yes, there have been some discontinued flavors of DOTS candy. For example, Hot DOTS were available from 2004 to 2006, and flavors like Spice DOTS were only produced in the 1980s.
How Are DOTS Candy Different From Traditional Gumdrops?
DOTS gumdrops stand out from traditional gumdrops mainly in texture and flavor variety. They are typically chewier and less grainy than classic gumdrops and also offer a broader range of flavors and limited editions.
Are DOTS Candy Suitable for Vegetarian or Halal Diets?
Yes, DOTS candy is suitable for vegetarians, as they contain no animal-derived ingredients. According to PETA, DOTS are also vegan, making them an excellent option for those avoiding animal products. Furthermore, they are kosher and free from common allergens, such as nuts and gluten.
