It looks like Sunkist-brand fruit gems are here to stay.
Days after news outlet eJewishPhilanthropy first reported that the jelly candies, a staple at a myriad of Jewish celebrations, was discontinued, the candy brand has announced plans to ensure production following a wave of public outcry.
"We hear you, Sunkist Fruit Gem Fans!," Sunkist said in a Sept. 26 Instagram post. "The good news: Sunkist Fruit Gems are not going anywhere."
The reversal followed an outpouring of concern from customers who rely on the kosher-certified sweets for bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, Purim celebrations and other Jewish community events across the country.
The Ferrara Candy Company, which purchased the firm that manufactures Sunkist Fruit Gems, confirmed to USA
TODAY on Sept. 28 that it had planned to "streamline the portfolio."
Sunkist said it has been working with a new family-owned candy maker to "help us bring back the same great flavor, quality, kosher certification, and fruit-forward goodness you know and love."
For many fans, that kosher certification is just as important as the candy itself. Kosher gelatin must be approved by a recognized rabbinic authority and can be made from properly processed cattle, certain fish or plant-based ingredients such as agar-agar and pectin.
Sunkist Fruit Gems have become synonymous with Jewish celebrations, appearing at bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, nonprofit galas, candy drives and Purim gift baskets. According to Sunkist Citrus, any remaining Fruit Gems can still be found at some small retailers and on Amazon.
Jewish community relieved by return: 'Thank you'
Hundreds of customers, including the eJewishPhilanthropy reporter who broke the story, were relieved (and grateful) to hear the news, with some admitting to having stockpiled the candy out of an abundance of caution.
"I panic-bought in bulk for my wedding next year. Now I feel foolish lol. But enjoying a bunch of very yummy gummies," Shir Kalati wrote in the comment section of the Sept. 26 Instagram post.
Alicia Jo Rabins, who revealed she, too, panic purchased en masse, offered to share the lot with "anyone in Portland, Oregon" that may need an emergency supply for an upcoming simcha: "I am a local rabbi and I have some stashed away I’m glad to share!"
Rachel Bee added: "The entire Jewish community thanks you. The pounds I bought in a panic buy should tied me over!"
Others were simply relieved, noting that the "crisis [was] averted," i.e., "peace has been restored."
"Bar and bat mitzvah kids everywhere thank you," Mindy Schaper wrote. "As an aside, while I don't eat much sugary candy as an adult, as a kid I LOVED sinking into a Sunkist."
Shoshana Jackson felt similarly, adding: "Wahoo! I was truly devastated to hear the news because I'm just starting to plan my third child's simcha! Sunkist Fruit Gems are THE BEST celebratory candy!!! Hopefully you can secure production and distribution in the next year, B"H."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Beloved Sunkist kosher candy isn't going away after all
