Sweethearts are back on store shelves in time for Valentine’s Day. Last year, you may remember, if you wanted to tell the object of your affection to “BE MINE” or “KISS ME” you had to find another way. The iconic conversation hearts were missing from store shelves because of a change in ownership.

Thankfully they’re back for Valentine’s Day 2020, but consumers might notice a few changes. Because of printing machine issues, not all hearts will receive printed messages. Some Sweethearts are being released blank. Yes—silent hearts.

Additionally, Spangler the company behind Dum Dum lollipops and now Sweethearts, has decided to return to the original 118-year-old candy recipe. That means flavors like banana and wintergreen will find their way back in the box.

Consumers can find Sweethearts for the 2020 season at big retailers like Walgreen’s and CVS, but should act soon. Spangler spokeswoman Diana Moore Eschhofen told CNBC that because of the technical challenges, the company won’t be able to meet all the consumer demand for 2020, though production will be back in fully swing by 2021.

The popular conversation hearts were formerly produced by New England Confectionery Company (Necco) of Massachusetts until 2018 when the brand was sold. Candy hearts brand was picked up by Spangler Candy of Ohio. Challenges transporting the candy-hearts-making equipment are responsible for the shortage of hearts this year.

Still, fans are thrilled the classic candy are back and will now live on “FOR EVER.”

You could say it’s “TRUE LOVE.”


Also see, 10 little-known facts about Valentine’s Day candy hearts.

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Meghan is a full-time writer exploring the fun facts behind food. She lives a healthy lifestyle but lives for breakfast, dessert and anything with marinara. She’s thrown away just as many meals as she’s proud of.