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Vigroids facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
NigroidsFerrisTin
A tin container for Nigroids, made by Ferris & Co. Ltd.

Vigroids were a special kind of liquorice sweet that looked like small black pellets. They were also known as Mighty Imps and were originally called Nigroids. These sweets were often sold as a type of lozenge to help singers, with a slogan that said they were "for clarity of voice."

The main ingredient in Vigroids was liquorice juice. The company that made them suggested that people should not eat too many, perhaps no more than 10 a day, because liquorice can affect blood pressure. Vigroids did not contain sugar. They also had small amounts of other flavors like menthol, eucalyptus, and peppermint, which helped them work like a breath mint.

The Story of Vigroids

Nigroids (plastic dispenser)
A plastic dispenser holding Nigroids liquorice pellets.

Vigroids, when they were still called Nigroids, were first created in 1900 by a company called Ferris & Co. Ltd. This company was a chemical manufacturer located in Bristol, England.

When they first launched the sweets, Ferris & Co. Ltd. used a slogan to explain what they were good for:

For Hoarseness, "Tickling of the Throat," etc. They afford protection to the Voice, Throat, and Chest, against ill-effects of fog, cold and damp. Invaluable to singers and speakers.

This meant they were helpful for people with a sore or scratchy throat, and could protect the voice, throat, and chest from bad weather. They were especially useful for singers and public speakers.

In 1974, another company named Ernest Jackson acquired the brand. Then, in 2010, the name was officially changed from "Nigroids" to "Vigroids."

Vigroids and Mighty Imps were listed on the Ernest Jackson website until October 2014. However, by January 2015, they were no longer shown on the website.

Other Similar Sweets

More Information

  • Archived Vigroids page for manufacturer
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