Saltwater Taffy is a variety of soft taffy originally produced and marketed in Atlantic City, New Jersey, beginning in the late 19th century.
The most popular explanation of the name is that of a candy store owner, David Bradley, whose shop was flooded during a major storm in 1883, soaking the shop’s taffy stock with Atlantic saltwater, according to Bulk Candy Store. Bradley began selling the candy as “saltwater taffy” and an American delicacy was born.
Another taffy maker in the area, Joseph Fralinger, is credited for making saltwater taffy a household name. The former fish merchant packed one pound oyster boxes with his saltwater taffy making it the first "Atlantic City Souvenir." The one-pound box remains a popular souvenir over 125 years later.
