MN90:Pearson’s Candy

Five brothers are behind the start–more than a century ago–of a confectionary powerhouse based in St. Paul. The Nut Goody was the candy that planted the seed that grew into the iconic midwest sweet shop. 
(Narrator of promotional film):
“The Salted Nut Roll is prepared by a secret, patented process that makes it impossible to copy. The Salted Nut Roll is uniquely Pearson’s–and enjoyed by millions..”As this promotional film from the 60s shows, Pearson’s is precious about protecting its secrets. Before Pearson’s manufactured candy like the Nut Roll, they were first candy distributors with the company started by P. Edward, Oscar and John Pearson. Soon the trio realized they could earn more making their own confections and introduced the chocolate-covered peanut cluster Nut Goodie in 1912. The Salted Nut Roll followed. The family’s two other brothers also joined the company. CEO Michael Keller told Greater MSP in an interview that Pearson’s products have mixed regional and national markets. “Nut Goodie is a true upper Midwest favorite. Really strong in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and the Dakotas. Salted Nut Roll is also beloved in those areas but it has long since spread out. You can pretty much find Salted Nut Roll anywhere in the country.” Pearson’s changed the name of the Salted Nut Roll to the “Choo-choo bar” briefly. The also changed the Nut Goodie recipe and packaging for a short time in the 80s. In both cases they returned to the original.