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A pile of grape flavored Hi-Chew.
A pile of grape flavored Hi-Chew.

Hi-Chew Candy: Bursting with Unique Flavors and Chewiness!

Thuy FangThuy Fang
Published Time
Posted on August 31, 2023

Hi-Chew is a delicious candy that many people enjoy! They’re trendy at Halloween, Children’s Day, or birthday parties. Have you ever wondered where it came from? If so, let’s quickly explore some exciting information and the super unique flavors of Hi-Chew.

Where did Hi-Chew come from?

In the early 20th century, Taichiro Morinaga, aka the founder of one of Japan’s most famous confectionery companies – Morinaga & Co. wanted to create a treat that was like chewing gum but could be swallowed. This was because taking food from your mouth wasn’t polite in Japan.

A vintage pack of Morinaga Chewlets.
Hi-Chews were initially known as Chewlets. Image via Aucview

Therefore, Morinaga came up with a brilliant idea in 1931. He invented a candy that could be chewed like gum but eaten just like that and called it “Chewlets.” By 1975, his candy got a new name, “Hi-Chew,” and people liked it because of its chewy texture. In 1996, the candy exploded in popularity after the company included wrapping paper, making it easy and convenient for consumers to carry and share. 

Why should I give Hi-Chew a try?

Not only is it gluten-free, it comes in a wide variety of flavors! Starting with its distinctive original flavors like strawberry, green apple, and grape, Hi-Chew has expanded its flavor variety to over 200 since its introduction in 1975. And among them, there are over 20 varieties available in the US. 

A trio of different flavored Hi-Chews.
Hi-Chew is by Morinaga. Image via Shutterstock

Due to the diversity of flavors and the desire to meet customers’ preferences for trying multiple candy tastes, Hi-Chew introduced a variety pack containing dual-flavor or triple-flavor combinations in one package. Currently, Hi-Chew Sours Citrus Mix readily features fresh grapefruit, lemon, and lime flavors, while Tropical Mix presents a unique combination of mango, pineapple, and kiwi. Here are some more flavors you should try!

Are you interested in enjoying fantastic Japanese snacks like Hi-Chew? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!

Dragon Fruit

A plate of dragonfruit, which is an interesting flavor for Hi-Chew.
Dragon fruit is a superfood you can enjoy in Hi-Chew form! Image via Shutterstock

Dragon fruit is one of the typical fruits of the tropical Asian region, so it’s probably not very familiar to those living in Western countries. It usually has a pink peel, white flesh, many black seeds, and a slightly sweet taste. If you haven’t tasted dragon fruit, the candy version tastes like a mix of fragrant pear and sweet lychee.

Sweet & Sour Watermelon

Sweet and sour watermelon drinks.
Watermelon is always refreshing in the summer! Image via Shutterstock

Watermelon is a refreshing and sweet fruit perfect for scorching summer days. Unlike other watermelon-flavored candies, Hi-Chew has put a creative twist on its watermelon flavor. This flavor is famous for tasting just like the fruit but with a little extra kick.

Blue Raspberry

Blue Raspberry Hi-Chew is the ultimate treat for those with a soft spot for berry flavors. From the moment you take your first bite, prepare for a flavor-packed journey! The experience begins with a gentle touch of cotton candy sweetness that gradually evolves into a burst of chewy, fruity deliciousness.

A concept photo of blue raspberry.
Blue raspberry was invented to tell the flavor apart from strawberry, cherry, and other red fruits! Image via Shutterstock

Each chew is like a roller coaster of taste, making it a fun and enjoyable snack for all berry enthusiasts. So, if you’re ready for a thrilling flavor adventure, try Blue Raspberry Hi-Chew!

Strawberry Lemonade

A glass of strawberry lemonade.
Strawberry lemonade is especially popular in the States! Image via Shutterstock

This flavor stands out with its pale pink outer layer and a bright yellow center. It surpasses Hi-Chew’s individual strawberry and lemon flavors. It combines the mild berry taste with lemonade’s sweet and slightly tangy kick.

Rainbow Sherbet

I’m sure you’re familiar with the rainbow sherbet treats featuring fantasy colors. Hi-Chew Rainbow Sherbet is a great way to enjoy this nostalgic flavor! The rainbow sherbet flavor will bring you the closest taste to this fantastic ice cream’s creamy and fruity flavors.

A cup of rainbow sherbet.
Rainbow sherbet is a popular dessert on a hot day! Image via Shutterstock

What’s there to say about Hi-Chew?

The journey of this candy, from its early days as “Chewlets” to its favored status as a well-loved Japanese candy, tells a story of its exciting history and unique flavors. With a wide range of flavors, this candy offers a tasty mix of sweetness and creativity that people of all ages enjoy.

The extensive collection of more than 200 flavors naturally makes us curious about which Hi-Chew types our readers like the most. So, remember to let us know your favorite flavor in the comments below! Your thoughts will surely bring extra flavor to our conversation.

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