Halloween candy may no longer be the holiday treat students are craving. (CU Independent illustration/Lee Pruitt)
Finally, it’s October, when it becomes acceptable to buy candy in bulk and not have to suffer judgmental looks at the checkout aisle from everyone while they think, “Should you really be buying that much candy?”
Time changes things drastically. As a child there is nothing more fun than getting all dressed up, going to a neighbor’s house and getting candy for looking cute or creative.
But do college students still get a kick out of Halloween candy, or is it something that is just for kids?
AOL said that in 2002, the average American consumed 24 pounds of candy. Most of that can no doubt be accounted for among the under-10 demographic on Nov. 1 of every year. Nonetheless, many young adults say they still find their sweet tooth tingling around this time of year.
Senior psychology major Bethany Salazar says she remains a big fan of Halloween.
“I always buy a whole bag for myself!” Salazar said.
In economic times like these, a cheap sugar rush can be essential. Candy is a necessity for most students trying to trudge through 10 page papers or endless hours of studying.
“Halloween candy’s pretty good,” said Abbie Mills, a senior music major. “The sales the day after are even better.”
Candy has mostly universal appeal. But the real question is what’s good, what’s bad, and what should be avoided at all cost? With so many options, the ultimate choice can be a daunting task. According to AOL, “Snickers” is America’s chocolate bar of choice. And shockingly 20 million pounds of one of Halloween’s most famous treat, candy corn, is consumed yearly.
Avoiding candy packed with sugar is a good idea, according to Boulder’s Comfort Dental. But as long as a thorough brushing of those sweet teeth follows, there shouldn’t be a problem. Regular visits to a dentist for teeth cleaning, teeth whitening, etc. should also be prioritized. You may also consider getting dental implants if you have missing teeth you want to replace.
Some students have other ideas of what candies to steer clear of.
“No Dum Dums—that’s the kind of candy you get at the bank,” Salazar said.
But with age comes acquired tastes.
Surprising enough, these days trick or treating isn’t high on the list of priorities on Halloween night. Students look forward to Halloween in a different aspect.
What kinds of “grown up” treats are students looking for these days?
“Booze!” said Mark Moerschbacher, a junior marketing major.
Anything in particular?
“Whatever’s there,” Moerschbacher said.
Some college students’ taste in Halloween treats changes from the usual names of “Reese’s” and “Oh Henry” to “Jose Cuervo” and “Captain Morgan.” But be advised these novelties often pack more “trick” than “treat.”
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Amanda Moutinho at amanda.moutinho@colorado.edu
