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Decoding Mint Flavors: Spearmint Versus Peppermint in Sweets and Gum
When selecting mint-flavored confectionary such as sweets and chewing gum, consumers typically encounter two primary options: spearmint and peppermint. But what exactly distinguishes these two prevalent types of mint, each offering a unique taste profile?
Unveiling the Mint Family
Lydia Byron, the proprietor of Wyldes Sweet Shop in Tamworth, Staffordshire since 2022, has experienced considerable success both in her physical store and on social media, partly attributed to the local popularity of Spudman, another small business. Byron recently shared an intriguing fact with her online followers.
“There are approximately 20 to 30 recognized species of mint within the Mentha genus, although cross-breeding is common,” she stated in a TikTok video. She further clarified that peppermint itself is a hybrid, resulting from a cross between spearmint and watermint.
“Interestingly,” she continued, “lemon balm is also classified as a member of the mint family. Both peppermint and spearmint are frequently incorporated into the sweets we enjoy. But what are the fundamental differences between them?”
Peppermint’s Potent Menthol Kick
Byron explained that peppermint is the more prevalent base for mint sweets because of its higher menthol content, approximately 40% greater than spearmint. “If you’ve ever experienced a sweet that provides that characteristic cooling sensation in your throat, it’s likely due to this higher menthol level. Despite the name ‘peppermint‘ sounding gentler than ‘spearmint‘, peppermint is known for its robust and sharp flavor.”
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Spearmint’s Softer, Sweeter Profile
In contrast, spearmint offers a “milder” taste, according to Byron, with a “subtle sweetness.” She concluded, “Surprisingly, spearmint is more frequently used in savory cooking due to its more balanced flavor profile compared to peppermint.”
Consumer Preferences on Mint Flavors
Online opinions regarding the two mints were varied. One TikTok user humorously quipped, “One is delicious, and the other is spearmint.” Another commenter passionately declared, “Spearmint soft mints are the best mint sweet ever created.”
A third participant in the discussion added, “I prefer spearmint mints and gum. If spearmint is an option, it’s my top choice.” Another individual admitted, “I always thought lemon balm tasted similar to mint; as a child, I often confused them.”
Conversely, a fifth TikTok user shared, “Although I don’t always enjoy the intense, spicy taste of peppermint, I still prefer it over spearmint. There’s something about peppermint that makes my breath feel cleaner and fresher than spearmint does.”
Wyldes Sweet Shop: A Legacy Rekindled
Wyldes Sweet Shop was originally established in the 1890s by Lydia Byron’s great-great-grandmother, Hannah Wyldes. Passed down through generations, Lydia decided to assume ownership of the family business.
“Having the opportunity to take over the sweet shop and continue its legacy was truly incredible. We’ve aimed to preserve its original character as much as possible for generations, with the exception of adding a card machine – the only modern concession I’ve implemented,” she mentioned in an interview with Birmingham Live.
Spudman’s Influence and Social Media Success
Discussing Wyldes’ current surge in popularity, influenced by Spudman’s fame, she elaborated, “We initially gained some traction on TikTok ourselves after Spudman was already well-known. He then thought collaborating on some videos would be a great idea. We simply started enjoying the experience of interacting with others authentically, and it naturally grew from there.”