14 fun facts about Peeps — the most controversial Easter candy in America

Peeps celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2018. Just Born began making the marshmallow treats in 1953, after purchasing The Rodda Candy Company from Lancaster, Pa.

Just Born Quality Confections has been in business since 1923 and is now in its third generation of family ownership.

When it first started making Peeps in 1953, it took 27 hours to create Peeps chicks, according to the company. Now, with modern technology, it takes six minutes. 

Were you of a mind to line them up next to one another, the number of Peeps produced by Just Born in one year would circle the Earth twice.

Stacking 8,000 Peeps on top of one another would reach the top of the Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower, in Chicago. 

Yellow is the best selling color of Peeps chicks and bunnies in the United States. The marshmallow candies were originally yellow and white, followed by pink, lavender, blue, green and orange.

Each Peeps chick has 28 calories. Bunnies have 27.5 calories. Both have 0 grams of fat. 

Chocolate Dipped and Chocolate Covered Peeps chicks were introduced to the public for Easter 2010. 

While the company suggests people eat their Peeps them while they're fresh, they have been told by people they can be frozen. Just Born recommends storing Peeps at about 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity of about 45-50 percent. 

Around the country in early spring, there are held Peeps art and diorama contests. The Carroll County Arts Council is on its 12th annual celebration, calling the annual event the PEEPshow. This year's Carroll County event runs until April 23. 

Just Born holds Peepsfest every year Dec. 30 and 31 in Bethlehem, Pa. The two-day family event includes Peeps smores making, a fun run and 5K, music, magicians and a diorama contest. It culminates in a Peeps Chick Drop and fireworks. 

The company operates two retail stores, one in Maryland and one in Pennsylvania. Peeps can be found throughout the year at its online store, www.peepsandcompany.com. 

Peeps are available at all major seasons, including Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter and Summer.