Why do most slot machines use fruit symbols?

[Julio88]

Most slot machines use fruit symbols because of their historical association with early gambling machines. In the early 1900s, laws were passed in many areas that banned cash payouts from slot machines. To get around these laws, manufacturers turned their gambling devices into vending machines that dispensed chewing gum and other small prizes. The fruit symbols were chosen because the gum offered was fruit-flavored, and the association stuck. The use of fruit symbols continued even after cash payouts were allowed again, and they have become iconic symbols of slot machines to this day.

 

[Dallax]

The gum offered was fruit-flavored, thus the fruit symbols were picked, and the relationship remained. Even once monetary payouts were once again permitted, the use of fruit symbols persisted, and they have since evolved into recognizable icons for slot machines.

 

[James108]

There are a few theories about why fruit symbols were adopted. One is that they were associated with good luck and prosperity. Another is that they were used to get around laws that prohibited gambling, as fruit symbols were considered a form of entertainment rather than gambling.