Dive into the candy aisle at any supermarket, and you will find a bright red, fish-shaped gummy that is undoubtedly one of America's most beloved sweet treats - the Swedish Fish. With their unique texture and distinct flavor, these candies have enjoyed steady popularity for decades, but their origins, evolution, and the enduring mystery of their true flavor are equally intriguing tales worth discovering.

Swedish Fish swam into the world of candies during the late 1950s, courtesy of Malaco, a Swedish confectionery company that wanted to extend its market beyond its native shores. These fish-shaped sweets were designed to connect people with Sweden's fishing culture, making a playful statement while still presenting a product that felt familiar to the Swedes.

Fast forward to today, Swedish Fish have grown to be much more than a novelty candy from Europe; they have become icons in the world of confections. From kids' parties to office candy jars, they have embedded themselves into the fabric of American sweet indulgence.

Through the years, Swedish Fish have evolved and diversified, capitalizing on their popularity. Although the original red fish remains the most recognizable, the candy now comes in several other colors and flavors. These variations include tropical flavors and even blue raspberry lemonade flavored Swedish fish!

Despite these added flavor varieties, the original red Swedish Fish remains the crown jewel, primarily due to its mystery flavor. There has been much speculation regarding this ambiguous taste. Some have argued that it resembles cherry, while others contend that it's closer to fruit punch. Some even believe it mirrors the flavor of lingonberry, a tart fruit native to Sweden. Yet, the company remains mum on the specifics, allowing the guessing game to fuel the candy's mystique.

This long-standing debate about the red Swedish Fish's flavor has persisted, despite the various taste-tests and experiments conducted by fans worldwide. The candy's distinct sweetness, coupled with its subtle tartness, keeps everyone guessing and contributes to the ongoing popularity of Swedish Fish.

However, after decades of mystery, we are finally ready to reel in the big catch. The actual flavor of the original red Swedish Fish isn't cherry, nor is it generic fruit punch as some have guessed. The answer to this delicious enigma has always been in the candy's homeland.

Indeed, the true flavor of Swedish Fish is lingonberry, a small, red, tart berry native to Sweden. The lingonberry, much like the candy it inspires, is a significant part of Swedish culture, used in a variety of dishes from desserts to sauces, and even drinks. Despite the lingonberry's unfamiliarity outside Scandinavia, the Swedish Fish's flavor has resonated with candy lovers globally, further demonstrating the universal appeal of this simple yet tasty berry.

So, the next time you savor the sweet and slightly tangy taste of a Swedish Fish, remember that you're enjoying a small, delicious piece of Swedish culture. The mystery of its flavor, the whimsical form, and the cheerful color all contribute to the experience of eating a Swedish Fish. And knowing the secret behind the flavor only adds to the allure of this beloved candy.