- Just Born Confections produces 5.5 million Peeps daily in Bethlehem, PA
- Annual production exceeds 2 billion units – six for every U.S. resident
- 1950s automation reduced creation time from 27 hours to 6 minutes
- Featured in recipes, STEM projects, and Pennsylvania tourism initiatives
The neon-colored marshmallow chicks spark intense seasonal debates among candy enthusiasts. While devotees insist these sugary treats define Easter celebrations, critics mock their artificial appearance and shelf-stable texture. Just Born Quality Confections, the family-owned manufacturer behind this polarizing candy, maintains year-round production to meet holiday demand spikes.
Behind the scenes, Bethlehem’s Peep-making operation reveals industrial-scale confectionery engineering. Each batch consumes 400 pounds of sugar for signature colored coatings, while proprietary machines extrude 1,300 chicks per minute. This automated process – pioneered by engineer Bob Born – transformed Peeps from niche product to cultural phenomenon. Modern varieties now include limited-edition flavors like sour watermelon and cookies & cream.
Regional economists credit Peeps with supporting 1,200 manufacturing jobs and driving Pennsylvania’s candy tourism. The company’s annual visitor center traffic exceeds 150,000 guests, many participating in Peeps-themed art contests and science workshops. Local bakeries have developed specialty items like Peeps-infused milkshakes and architectural gingerbread houses using the candies as edible decor.
Food scientists attribute Peeps’ lasting popularity to their unique textural properties. Unlike traditional marshmallows, these treats maintain structural integrity for months – a quality that inspires unconventional uses. Teachers incorporate them into physics lessons about density, while crafters create LED-lit dioramas. Instagram trends show over 350,000 posts tagged #PeepsHacks featuring microwave experiments and cocktail garnishes.
Consumer psychologists note the candies’ nostalgia factor drives multigenerational appeal. Adults who grew up with classic yellow chicks now purchase new varieties for their children, creating recurring revenue streams. Retailers report Peeps account for 18% of Easter season candy sales, with premium versions retailing at 40% profit margins compared to standard chocolates.
As dietary trends shift toward natural ingredients, Just Born faces pressure to reformulate. The company recently introduced a vegan prototype using plant-based gelatin alternatives, though traditionalists argue this compromises the authentic Peeps experience. Industry analysts predict augmented reality packaging and personalized Peeps colors could drive the brand’s next evolution.