Whatchamacallit

Introduction

Whatchamacallit is a candy bar that was introduced by The Hershey Company in 1978. The brand emerged from a unique brainstorming session where nearly 100 possible names were considered, ultimately leading to a catchy and memorable title that perfectly encapsulated the fun and whimsical nature of the product. This playful concept has resonated with candy lovers since its inception, resulting in a dedicated fan base and an enduring presence in the competitive candy market.

The philosophy behind Whatchamacallit is to create a confection that combines unexpected flavors and textures, resulting in a delightful snacking experience. The candy bar features a blend of peanut butter crisp, caramel, and chocolate that aims to captivate taste buds and evoke nostalgia. It embodies a playful spirit and encourages indulgence, positioning itself as an accessible treat enjoyed by people of all ages. This unique flavor profile reflects a commitment to innovation and creativity in candy making.

What makes Whatchamacallit special is not only its distinctive name but also its ability to promote joy and satisfaction through indulgence. The combination of textures and flavors creates a complex yet enjoyable eating experience that invites consumers to reminisce while savoring the moment. Accessible and easy to find, Whatchamacallit bars have become a staple in many candy aisles, solidifying their place in candy folklore.

Signature Products

Whatchamacallit products are defined by their unique flavors and textures, ensuring a memorable experience for consumers.

• WHATCHAMACALLIT Candy Bar : A deliciously crispy bar made of peanut butter crisp, caramel, and a thin layer of chocolate.
• WHATCHAMACALLIT King Size Candy Bar : A larger version of the classic candy bar, offering more of the same irresistible combination of flavors.
• WHOZEEWHATZIT Chocolate King Size Candy Bar : A fun twist on the original, combining similar elements with a different blend of textures and tastes.

Materials and Ingredients Used by Whatchamacallit

• Butter : Butter is a dairy ingredient used for its rich flavor and creamy texture. In WHATCHAMACALLIT Candy Bars, it contributes to the smoothness of the chocolate coating and enhances the mouthfeel of the overall treat.
• Coconut : Coconut provides a unique flavor and texture to the bar, adding a hint of tropical taste. It is often included for its natural sweetness, complementing the other ingredients like chocolate and peanut-flavored crisp.
• Corn : Corn is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various forms, such as corn syrup, which acts as a sweetener. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, corn-based ingredients help balance flavors and provide the desired crisp texture in the candy.
• Milk : Milk is a key dairy ingredient that enhances the creamy flavor and texture of the chocolate. In WHATCHAMACALLIT Candy Bars, it plays a vital role in creating the smooth and rich chocolate coating.
• Palm Oil : Palm oil is utilized as a fat source that provides stability and texture to the candy. It helps in achieving a desirable mouthfeel and extending the shelf life of WHATCHAMACALLIT Candy Bars.
• Peanuts : Peanuts add protein and crunch, making them a fundamental part of the candy bar's flavor profile. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, they contribute to the nutty taste and are essential for the beloved crisp texture.
• Rice : Rice is commonly used in snack bars for its light and crispy texture. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, rice ingredients help to create the unique peanut-flavored crisp that is a signature of the candy.
• Safflower Oil : Safflower oil is often included for its neutral flavor and ability to enhance texture. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, it helps in creating the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Soybean : Soybean ingredients can serve as emulsifiers and stabilizers, aiding in the consistency of the chocolate coating. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, they help maintain the smooth texture of the candy.
• Sugar : Sugar is a primary sweetening agent that provides the candy with its sweetness. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, it complements the chocolate and adds to the overall indulgent experience.
• Sunflower : Sunflower ingredients, such as sunflower oil, are included for their light flavor and texture. In WHATCHAMACALLIT, they contribute to the overall balance of the candy's formulation.
• Vegetable Oil : Vegetable oil is used to improve the texture and mouthfeel of WHATCHAMACALLIT Candy Bars. It helps in creating a smooth coating and extends the product's freshness.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From Whatchamacallit

These issues are related to the supply chain of the brand and need to be taken into consideration.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Butter production is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas. When cows digest food, they produce methane, which is subsequently released into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. According to the FAO, the dairy sector is responsible for about 4% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions.

Deforestation:

Palm oil and coconut production have been linked to deforestation, particularly in tropical regions. Forests in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia are often cleared to make way for large palm oil plantations, contributing to habitat loss for endangered species like orangutans and Sumatran tigers. Similarly, coconut farming can lead to deforestation, though not as extensively as palm oil.

Water Consumption:

Many agricultural practices related to these ingredients, such as cultivating rice, sunflower, and peanuts, require substantial water resources. Growing rice is particularly water-intensive, needing up to 5,000 liters of water per kilogram produced. This raises concerns in regions facing water scarcity and contributes to the depletion of local water sources.

Pesticide Use:

The production of ingredients such as corn, peanuts, safflower oil, and sunflowers is often associated with high pesticide use. Pesticides can have damaging effects on local ecosystems, leading to the decline of beneficial insect populations, contamination of water bodies, and potential health risks to farm workers. This necessitates careful management and the adoption of sustainable farming practices.

Methane Emissions:

Methane emissions are a significant concern, particularly with livestock like cows used in milk production and the cultivation of rice paddies. Both of these contribute significantly to global methane levels, with rice production accounting for about 10% of global methane emissions, emanating from anaerobic decomposition in flooded rice fields.

Labor Exploitation and Fair Trade Concerns:

The production of palm oil, sugar, and coconut has been linked to labor exploitation concerns. Workers often labor in harsh conditions for low pay, which raises ethical concerns. For example, there are numerous reports from palm oil plantations where workers face poor working conditions and violations of labor rights, necessitating a push for fair trade certifications to ensure ethical labor practices.

Soil Degradation and Monoculture Practices:

Ingredients like corn and soybean are often grown in monocultures, which can deplete soil nutrients, reduce biodiversity, and make crops susceptible to disease and pests, leading to increased pesticide use. This practice diminishes the long-term sustainability of agricultural lands, requiring the adoption of crop rotation and permaculture techniques to mitigate soil degradation.

In considering these issues, addressing them through more sustainable practices and transparent sourcing can have a significant impact on reducing the environmental and social footprint of the brand Whatchamacallit.