The Truth Behind The Urban Legend Of Pop Rocks And Little Mikey

Have you ever heard the tale of Little Mikey, the kid who allegedly died from mixing Pop Rocks candy with soda? This urban legend has persisted for decades, creating a shadow over a beloved candy. In this article, we will dive deep into the origins of Pop Rocks, explore the rumors surrounding them, and uncover the truth behind the infamous Little Mikey story.

Invented in 1956 by General Foods research scientist William A. Mitchell, Pop Rocks were introduced to the public in 1975. These tiny, carbonated candies created a unique experience when consumed, delivering a fizzy sensation and a satisfying popping sound that children found delightful. However, despite extensive safety testing, the candy sparked panic among parents, especially in Seattle, where the FDA even set up a hotline to calm anxious guardians concerned about the candy's safety.

The origins of the urban legend surrounding Pop Rocks can be traced back to exaggerated stories shared among children. Kids often love to spin tales about the dangers of certain snacks, and Pop Rocks were no exception. One infamous story claimed that a child had consumed several bags of Pop Rocks and soda, leading to a fatal explosion in his stomach. These rumors only gained traction as children shared and embellished them in playgrounds and schoolyards.

The Rise of the Legend: Little Mikey

The character of Little Mikey became the face of this urban legend due to a commercial he starred in for LIFE cereal. Although he was known for being cute and relatable, the tales of his untimely demise transformed him into an urban legend. Children began to connect the dots, believing that mixing Pop Rocks with soda could lead to a gruesome end, reflecting a common theme in urban legend storytelling: victims who are both familiar and anonymous.

Interestingly, the real person behind Little Mikey, John Gilchrist, is very much alive. He has gone on to have a successful career in media and has publicly addressed the rumors that surround him. In a humorous take on the urban legend, Gilchrist dispelled the myth, confirming that he enjoys LIFE cereal and has never had any adverse reactions to Pop Rocks.

Debunking the Myths: Pop Rocks and Safety

Despite the wild stories surrounding Pop Rocks, the truth is that they are safe to consume. General Foods took proactive measures in the late 1970s to combat the rumors, including full-page ads in major publications and letters to school principals. They even sent the candy's inventor on a tour to educate the public about the product's safety, stating that Pop Rocks produce less gas than half a can of soda and would not lead to serious harm.

Even after the myths were debunked, the legend of Little Mikey continued to thrive. Many mistakenly believed that the discontinuation of Pop Rocks in the early 1980s was a sign of their danger. In reality, Kraft acquired the rights to the candy in 1985, and Pop Rocks have since returned to the market under their original name.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Urban Legends

Urban legends like the story of Little Mikey serve as fascinating reflections of societal fears and the power of storytelling. They remind us how easily misinformation can spread, especially when tied to relatable figures and experiences. Today, Pop Rocks remain a nostalgic candy, and the legend of Little Mikey lives on as a cautionary tale about the power of rumors.

Next time you enjoy a bag of Pop Rocks, remember the story behind them and the truth that lies beneath the surface of urban legends!

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