Why Utahns Choose Tootsie Rolls Over Reese’s And Snickers

Utah and the Tootsie Roll: A Love Story Nobody Saw Coming

Dr. T recently wrote an article exposing a strange finding by Little Sleepies, a recent candy survey that looked at Halloween candy preference by state. It highlighted a surprising possibility: Utah may have a soft spot for the humble Tootsie Roll. While other states chase peanut butter cups, chocolate bars, and sour gummies, Utah appears willing to stand proudly beside a candy that has been confusing trick-or-treaters for generations.

Naturally, we have questions.

Is It Because Tootsie Rolls Are Pioneer-Era Old?

Let's start with the obvious.

The Tootsie Roll has been around since 1896, that almost aligns with the wagon train days.

assorted chocolate bar on red shelf

Utahns appreciate history. We preserve pioneer cabins, celebrate heritage days, and tell stories about crossing deserts. A candy that feels older than indoor plumbing may simply speak to us on a spiritual level.

Desert Survival Builds Character

Here is another theory, generations of desert living has taught Utahns an important lesson: when resources are scarce, you learn not to be picky.

Now, we're not saying a Tootsie Roll resembles something that may have fallen off the back end of a passing animal.

We're just saying the shape has raised a few eyebrows over the years.

a brown and white cow standing on top of a grass covered field

In the harsh beauty of the West, however, survival means finding value where others see um you know, hmmm fertilizer?. Maybe Utah sees a Tootsie Roll, remembers how they used to burn cow emissions and thinks, "just like gramps used to do."

To Be Fair, We Have Nothing Against Tootsie Rolls

Let's be clear. Tootsie Rolls are perfectly respectable Halloween citizens.

But when they're sharing a candy bowl with Reese's, Snickers, Kit Kats, and a dozen other all-stars, choosing the round brown chewy little loggie is certainly a bold move.

Read More: Dr T's Article on Little Sleepies Utah Tootsie Roll Preference Finding 

Then again, Utah has never been afraid to zig when everyone else zags and hey Utah survived the west before the west was won.