Sun, 03 May 2026 16:19:54 +0000

Nonpareils That Shocked the World Before They Were Even Known When most people think of nonpareils, they picture tiny, perfectly round, glossy candies prized for their precise size and sharp flavor—little rows of perfect confections resting in a mix or array. But behind their innocent appearance lies a surprising history: some nonpareils shocked the world decades before they became beloved sweets. These tiny treasures were once shrouded in mystery, associated with secrecy, subcultures, or scandal before captivating global palates. ### What Exactly Is a Nonpareil? First, a quick refresher: a nonpareil (from French meaning “equals no peer”) is a synonym for a tiny, flawless pellet—often synonymous with extremely small candies. Traditionally, they are bite-sized, smooth, and uniformly shaped, often coated in sugar or chocolate. But their story runs deeper than candy flavor.