Most would agree that one of the most iconic Valentine’s Day candies are the little conversation hearts. The sayings found on them vary from “True love” to “xoxo” and can have a lot of sentimental value for such a tiny piece of sugar. Despite all this, they will not be produced or sold this Valentine’s Day due to difficulties within Necco, the business that originally produced the candy. 

Necco went out of business last year, and a different company, Round Hill Investments, bought it. With all the changes, there was not enough time to produce the popular candy by Valentine‘s Day.   

“It doesn’t hurt my feelings. I forgot those [candy hearts] were a thing,” Anaya Ferrell, junior, said. 

Some remember these hearts as a darker time in their lives. In elementary school, many students remember handing out conversation hearts to their friends or “boyfriends” to show their appreciation. Some look back on this time with regret and embarrassment that they would give these to their peers.  

“I feel like those [candy hearts] are what we did when we had a crush on someone, and now, it’s just really weird and kind of childish,” Emma Davis, freshman, said. 

Conversation hearts are a timeless tradition that have been around since the 1840s. For years, people have considered the candy a Valentine’s Day staple and are upset they are not available this year. 

“Candy hearts are symbolic to Valentine’s Day and would be even better if the candy itself tastes good,” Collin Sherrer, freshman, said.  

Whether buyers are sad they cannot give a “Be mine” heart to their boyfriend or happy that the constant reminder of being single is not shoved in their face this year, many can agree that the hearts will always be a part of their childhood love life.