November 1999
Curiously Wired
Say goodbye to coffee breath. In fact, with Penguin Caffeinated Peppermints, you might just be able to say goodbye to coffee. Each tiny pellet is infused with a jolt of caffeine, providing a portable energy boost that won't stain your teeth. (Three mints pack the same punch as a can of cola.) The unique concoction is the brainchild of entrepreneurs Adam Smith and Brett Canfield. The two former college buddies were struck with the idea for caffeinated mints when-during their morning carpool commute to work-Canfield desperately craved a coffee pick-me-up but only had time to pop an Altoids mint. Sold at hipster locales like Urban Outfitters and Newbury Comics, the buzz-bites have a decidedly 20-something cult following. This hasn't stopped the comedian Robin Williams from reportedly having his chef buy him the mints, or Josie Bissett from getting a supply to enjoy with her friends. A box of 75 mints retails for $3. Four-packs ($12) and 12-packs ($25) can be ordered at www.peppermints.com. [Note to Sugar Busters! Disciples: the mints are sugar free!].
-Ariel Foxman
