What Exactly Is An Airhead?

Known for their chewy texture, bright colors and shiny wrappers, AirHeads candy evokes fond memories of childhood as well as the snack bar at the local public pool. Perhaps you remember the not quite sticky, not quite stretchy but 100% delicious candy treat from its prominence on candy shelves, its constantly varying line of products or those bizarre commercials where the kids' heads inflate like a balloon and float away. But what the heck are they? And how has the sweet treat stood the test of time for nearly 40 years?