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who makes swedish fish

Swedish Fish were originally created by the Swedish candy company Malaco in the 1950s, and today the brand is owned and produced for the North American market by Mondelēz International.

Who Makes Swedish Fish? 🐟

Quick Scoop

  • Original creator: Malaco, a Swedish confectionery company, in the late 1950s.
  • Current maker/distributor (U.S. & North America): Mondelēz International.
  • In Sweden: Still sold under the Malaco brand, often called “pastellfiskar” (“pastel fish”).

So if you’re grabbing a pack in the U.S. or Canada today, you’re basically getting a Malaco-origin candy produced and distributed by Mondelēz International.

A Tiny Bit of Backstory

  • In the 1950s , Malaco wanted to break into the North American market with something that felt “Swedish,” so they chose a fish shape, reflecting Sweden’s strong fishing culture.
  • The candy caught on in the U.S. from around 1957–1960 , becoming one of the most recognizable gummy-style candies on the market.
  • Over time, distribution and ownership for North America shifted into the big global snack portfolio of Mondelēz International , which now handles the brand in the U.S. (and under Maynards in Canada).

Think of it as: born in Sweden by Malaco, raised in North America by Mondelēz.

Where Are Swedish Fish Made Now?

  • Most Swedish Fish sold in North America are produced in Hamilton, Ontario (Canada) and in Turkey , under Mondelēz International’s manufacturing network.
  • In Canada , they’re distributed under the Maynards (or Maynards Bassetts) branding, but they’re still the same style of chewy fish candy.
  • In Sweden , they continue as part of Malaco’s candy assortments, still tied to their original roots.

FAQ-Style Quick Answers

  • Who invented Swedish Fish?
    Malaco, a Swedish candy producer, in the late 1950s.
  • Who makes Swedish Fish now in the U.S.?
    Mondelēz International.
  • Are they still Swedish?
    Yes in origin (Malaco, Sweden), though much of today’s production is in Canada and Turkey for the North American market.

TL;DR: Swedish Fish were created by Malaco in Sweden, but the ones you buy today in North America are made and distributed by Mondelēz International.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.