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A Nostalgic Journey Through Time: Revisiting 16 Discontinued Snacks from the 20th Century
Join us on a nostalgic journey through time as we revisit 16 discontinued snacks from the 20th century that once brought joy to our taste buds. These beloved treats, now gone but not forgotten, hold a special place in our hearts and memories.
Tang: This powdered beverage mix, introduced in 1957, brought instant orange flavor to the masses.
With its bright orange color and sweet, tangy taste, Tang was a staple in households during the 1960s and ’70s. Although it has been discontinued multiple times, the demand for this iconic drink keeps it from disappearing completely.
Ding-Dongs: These chocolate-covered, devil’s food cake snacks were introduced in 1967 by Hostess Brands.
Bold and
The Top Discontinued Snacks from Each Decade:
1950s: Libby’s Fruit Flavored Snacks
1960s: Wimpy Burgers
1970s: Frito-Lay’s Lobo Chips
1980s: Scooby Snacks
1990s: Crystal Pepsi
Continue exploring this journey through time as we revisit more beloved discontinued snacks from the 20th century.
A Nostalgic Journey through Discontinued Snacks
Introduction: Step aside, new snacks! In today’s world of continuous innovation and product releases, there is something uniquely appealing about discontinued snacks. Their fleeting existence in supermarkets and convenience stores leaves a lasting impression on consumers. This article will delve into the fascination with discontinued snacks and their profound connection to nostalgia. We’ll take a nostalgic journey through sixteen beloved yet vanished snacks.
Arch Deluxe
Introduced by McDonald’s in 1996, this premium hamburger was a failed attempt at appealing to adults. Its discontinuation marked the end of an era.
Oreo Fudge Covered Cookies
These decadent, fudge-covered Oreos were a treat for those with a sweet tooth. Their sudden disappearance left fans craving more.
3-5. Dino-Bites, Mars’ Minute Maid Fruit Burst, and Post’s Fruity Pebbles Cereal
These three discontinued snacks brought nostalgia through their unique shapes and flavors, transporting consumers back to their childhoods.
6. Planters’ CheezBalls
The iconic CheezBall, a cheesy snack in a can, vanished from shelves but remains beloved by many.
7. Frito-Lay’s Hootie Cheddar Corn Chips
These corn chips, inspired by the popular 90’s boy band Hootie & the Blowfish, were a short-lived collaboration.
8-10. Crystal Pepsi, Nabisco’s SnackWell’s Devil’s Food Cake Bars, and Pop-Tarts’ Cinnamon Sugar Twists
These three snacks were innovative in their respective markets but ultimately failed to maintain their presence.
1KFC’s Double Down
This sandwich, featuring two pieces of fried chicken instead of buns, caused controversy and was discontinued in 2013.
12-15. Wrigley’s Doublemint Gum with a Twist, Frito-Lay’s Jalapeno Tostitos, Snyder’s Pretzels’ Wicked Good! Cinnamon Sugar, and Burger King’s Sting Ray
These five snacks brought unique flavors to the market but could not sustain their popularity.
16. Taco Bell’s Bell BeeFare
A vegetarian option introduced by Taco Bell in the late 90’s, this menu item was discontinued due to lackluster sales.
Snack #1: Tangfastic! (Wrigley’s Tangfastics)
Tangfastics, a delightful candy creation from Wrigley’s, is an intriguing blend of fruit flavors that has left an indelible mark on candy lovers’ palates. These chewy treats, with their distinct elongated rectangular shape, are coated in a crispy, tangy sugar shell. The unique flavor combination of Tangfastics is reminiscent of a juicy fruit salad, with notes of strawberry, raspberry, and orange bursting in every bite.
Description of the Candy and its Unique Flavor Combination
The Tangfastics candy is known for its chewy center encased in a hard, sweet, and tangy coating. The fruit flavors are not just limited to the typical cherries, grapes, or lemons but offer a more exotic and vibrant taste profile. Each piece provides a delightful texture contrast – the soft chewiness of the center against the satisfying crunch of the outer shell, making every bite an enjoyable experience.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline
First introduced by Wrigley’s in the mid-1970s, Tangfastics quickly became a favorite among kids and adults alike due to their enticing taste and unique texture. Their popularity reached new heights in the 1980s when Wrigley’s launched a successful marketing campaign, emphasizing the “tang” factor. However, by the late 1990s and early 2000s, the demand for Tangfastics began to wane, and production was eventually discontinued in the United States.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability (if any)
In recent years, there have been sporadic attempts to revive the beloved Tangfastics candy. In 2014, Wrigley’s released a limited edition batch as part of its “Retro” lineup, only available at Walgreens stores in the United States. Similarly, in 2017, the Australian branch of Wrigley’s introduced a Tangfastics variant for a short time. However, these efforts have not led to a consistent and widespread return of the candy. Currently, Tangfastics remain a much-loved memory for many consumers, with some resorting to importing them from other countries or seeking out collectors’ editions.
Personal Anecdotes or Memories from Consumers
The fondness for Tangfastics often transcends the simple enjoyment of a sweet treat. Many consumers recall their childhood memories fondly, such as trading them with friends during recess or savoring them as an after-dinner treat. One person shared a memory of how Tangfastics were always her go-to candy when she had a bad day, and another recounted how they discovered their love for the tangy delights while traveling abroad. These stories serve as a testament to the lasting impact Tangfastics has had on people’s lives.
I Snack #2: Banana Splits (Nabisco)
A. Nabisco’s Banana Splits were unique, square-shaped crackers that boasted a delightful banana flavor. The surface of these snacks bore an intriguing texture, with small ridges that gave way to a subtle sweetness reminiscent of ripe bananas. These crackers measured approximately 2 inches by 1.5 inches, making them perfect for satisfying mid-meal cravings or serving as a tasty accompaniment to various dips and spreads.
Description of the crackers and their banana flavor
The Banana Splits crackers were made primarily from enriched wheat flour, cornmeal, and soybean oil. To achieve the distinctive banana taste, Nabisco added natural and artificial banana flavorings to their recipe. These crackers were also fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and thiamin.
Origination, popularity, and production timeline
Origination: Nabisco introduced the Banana Splits crackers in 1986 as part of their “Fruit Splits” line, which included other fruit-flavored snacks like Strawberry Splits and Apple Splits. The product was marketed towards children due to its playful name and fun, fruit-shaped packaging.
Popularity:
Banana Splits crackers quickly gained popularity among kids and adults alike due to their delicious taste and unique texture. They were a refreshing departure from the plain, salted snacks commonly found in schools and homes during the late 1980s.
Production timeline:
The Banana Splits crackers were produced in various Nabisco facilities throughout the United States and Canada during their run. At their peak, they were available at most major grocery stores and supermarkets.
Reasons for discontinuation and consumer reactions
Reasons for discontinuation: Despite their popularity, the Banana Splits crackers were eventually discontinued in the early 1990s due to a combination of factors. One theory suggests that increasing competition from other snack manufacturers led Nabisco to reconsider their product offerings, resulting in the discontinuation of less profitable lines like Banana Splits.
Consumer reactions:
The discontinuation of Banana Splits sparked a wave of nostalgia and disappointment among consumers, especially those who had grown up enjoying the snack. Online forums and social media platforms were filled with reminiscences of this lost favorite, as well as attempts to locate remaining boxes through various means.
E. Attempts at revival and current availability (if any)
Attempts at revival: Over the years, various efforts have been made to revive Banana Splits crackers. In 2015, a Change.org petition was started in an attempt to convince Nabisco to reintroduce the snack. The campaign gained over 20,000 signatures but ultimately failed to result in a product relaunch.
Current availability: As of now, Banana Splits crackers are not available for purchase in stores or online. However, they continue to hold a special place in the memories and hearts of those who enjoyed them during their heyday.
Snack #3: Jell-O Pudding Pops
Description:
Jell-O Pudding Pops are a refreshing and delicious treat, consisting of Jell-O brand pudding encased in a frozen ice pop form. These desserts come on a stick and are available in various flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, butterscotch, and banana. The pudding is first prepared in its traditional form, then cooled, poured into molds with a stick attached, and frozen until solid.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
Origination: Jell-O Pudding Pops were first introduced by the General Foods Corporation in 198The dessert was marketed as a fun twist on the classic Jell-O pudding.
Popularity: The snack quickly gained popularity due to its novelty and combination of the cooling effects of an ice pop with the rich taste of Jell-O pudding. Sales reached their peak in the late 1980s.
Production Timeline: Production continued until the mid-1990s when Kraft Foods, who had acquired General Foods, discontinued the product due to declining sales.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Reasons for Discontinuation: The reasons for the discontinuation of Jell-O Pudding Pops remain unclear. However, some sources suggest that declining sales and high production costs may have played a role.
Consumer Reactions: The discontinuation of Jell-O Pudding Pops was met with widespread disappointment and frustration from fans of the dessert.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
Attempts at Revival: In the years following their discontinuation, numerous attempts have been made to revive Jell-O Pudding Pops. Fans have created their own versions using homemade pudding and ice pop molds. In 2013, a Kickstarter campaign was launched to bring the dessert back, but it did not reach its funding goal.
Current Availability: As of now, Jell-O Pudding Pops are not available in stores. However, fans continue to express their interest and hope for a potential comeback.
Snack #4: Arch Deluxe (McDonald’s)
The Arch Deluxe, a premium sandwich offered by McDonald’s, was introduced in 1996 as part of the company’s attempt to capture a larger share of the market among adults.
Description and Ingredients:
The sandwich boasted a unique combination of ingredients including a toasted bun, lean tender grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and McDonald’s special sauce. The Arch Deluxe was designed to provide consumers with a more sophisticated and gourmet experience than traditional fast food offerings.
Origination, Marketing Strategy, and Popularity:
The sandwich was named after the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, where it was first introduced. McDonald’s marketed the Arch Deluxe as a sandwich for adults, emphasizing its sophisticated taste and high-quality ingredients in television commercials featuring actor Morley Safer. The marketing campaign was successful, and the Arch Deluxe became a popular menu item.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Despite its initial success, the Arch Deluxe was discontinued in the United States in 1997 due to low sales. Some consumers believed that the sandwich was too expensive and did not justify the price increase compared to other McDonald’s offerings. Others felt that the Arch Deluxe did not live up to its marketing hype, as some found the sandwich underwhelming in taste and quality.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
The Arch Deluxe has been brought back in various forms in different countries, including Canada, where it is still available under the name “Archburger.” However, it has not been reintroduced in the United States as a permanent menu item. Some McDonald’s locations offer the sandwich as a limited-time promotion or seasonal offering, but its availability is inconsistent. The Arch Deluxe remains a controversial and intriguing part of McDonald’s history, representing an ambitious attempt to cater to adult consumers that ultimately fell short of expectations.
VI. Snack #5: Ding Dongs (Hostess)
Ding Dongs, a iconic
by the link brand, are a delectable treat that combines the joy of chocolate and cake in perfect harmony. This
two-layer dessert
boasts a moist yellow cake base, topped with a rich chocolate frosting and encased in a velvety chocolate coating. The cake layer is soft and tender, while the chocolate layers provide a delightful contrast with their rich, sweet flavor.
Description of the dessert and its chocolate and cake layers
Originally introduced in 1967, Ding Dongs gained immense popularity due to their unique flavors and convenient packaging. Each dessert is individually wrapped, ensuring the freshness and portability of this tasty snack. The dessert’s name comes from the distinctive sound made when one taps on the chocolate coating, revealing the soft cake beneath.
Origination, popularity, and production timeline
Initially produced in Chicago, Illinois, Ding Dongs quickly spread across the United States and became a staple in many households. At their peak, over 30 million Ding Dongs were produced each week! However, due to changing consumer preferences and health concerns regarding the high sugar content, Hostess discontinued the production of this beloved dessert in 2012.
Reasons for discontinuation and consumer reactions
The decision to discontinue Ding Dongs was met with intense public outcry, as consumers expressed their disappointment and nostalgia for this long-standing dessert. Various online petitions and social media campaigns were launched to bring Ding Dongs back, generating over 20,000 signatures! Hostess ultimately succumbed to public pressure and announced a limited-edition return of Ding Dongs in 2015.
E. Attempts at revival and current availability
Since their return in 2015, Ding Dongs have been available once again for those craving the delicious combination of chocolate and cake. Hostess continues to produce these iconic desserts, allowing consumers to enjoy this classic treat whenever they desire.
V Snack #6: Fudge Rounds (Nabisco)
cookies
boast a delectable combination of a crunchy exterior and an irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth
fudgy center
. Each round is coated with a thin layer of chocolate icing, creating a perfect harmony between the crispness of the cookie and the richness of the center.
Originating in
1958
, these cookies were a welcome addition to Nabisco’s vast product line. Their popularity soon spread, as they offered an alluring alternative to the more common chocolate chip cookies. By the
1960s
, Fudge Rounds had become a mainstay in American households, gracing dinner tables and lunchboxes alike.
Despite their initial success, Fudge Rounds were ultimately discontinued in the late
1980s
. Several factors contributed to their demise, including changing consumer preferences and increased competition from other snack companies. The announcement of their discontinuation sparked a wave of sadness and disappointment among fans, resulting in numerous online petitions and impassioned pleas to Nabisco for their return.
Throughout the
1990s
and into the new millennium, attempts were made to revive Fudge Rounds. Limited-edition batches appeared sporadically, only to be met with overwhelming demand and subsequent discontinuation once more. Despite these setbacks, the loyal fanbase remained steadfast in their dedication to securing a permanent return of this beloved snack.
As of now,
VI Snack #7: Planters Cheez Balls
Planters Cheez Balls, a iconic snack introduced by Planters Nut and Chocolate Company in the late 1950s, are spherical, bite-sized cheese puffs coated with a fine layer of powdered cheese flavoring. These delightful snacks have been a fan favorite among kids and adults alike, offering a unique blend of savory and slightly sweet cheese flavors in every bite.
Description of the snack and its cheese flavor:
The chewy, light texture of each Cheez Ball is achieved by using a special process that involves the cheese powder being adhered to the spherical snack through a unique coating technology. The result is a delicious, irresistible snack that leaves consumers reaching for more.
Origination, popularity, and production timeline:
Originating in the late 1950s, Planters Cheez Balls quickly gained popularity as a fun and tasty snack for kids in the 1960s. By the 1970s, sales had soared to over $25 million annually. Production of these beloved snacks peaked in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with an estimated 120 million pounds produced per year.
Reasons for discontinuation and consumer reactions:
Despite their enduring popularity, Planters Cheez Balls were discontinued in the late 1990s due to a combination of factors including changing consumer preferences and increased competition. The news of their disappearance sparked widespread outcry from devoted fans, leading to numerous petitions, online campaigns, and even a “Bring Back Cheez Balls” movement.
Attempts at revival and current availability:
In the early 2000s, Planters attempted to revive the iconic snack under the name “Cheez Curls,” but they did not quite capture the original Cheez Ball magic. In recent years, however, there have been rumors of a potential return, with some retailers reporting sightings of the classic snack on shelves. Currently, Planters Cheez Balls can be found sporadically in some stores and online, but their availability remains limited.
IX. Snack #8: Bubble Up French Fried Onion Chips (Lay’s)
Bubble Up French Fried Onion Chips by Lay’s were a unique and delightful twist on the classic potato chip. These chips boasted an exquisite onion flavor, elevated by the presence of small, air-filled bubbles that dotted their surface. The onion taste was robust and savory, with a hint of sweetness that perfectly complemented the crisp texture of the chips.
Description of the Chips:
The bubbles on Bubble Up Onion Chips were not just a visual delight. They contributed to the chips’ texture, making each bite light and crunchy while allowing the onion flavor to permeate every nook and cranny. The bubbles were formed during the cooking process, when moisture within the chips expanded and created tiny pockets of air.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
First introduced in the late 1980s, Bubble Up Onion Chips quickly gained popularity due to their innovative take on potato chips. The combination of crispy texture and bold onion flavor made these chips a favorite among snack enthusiasts. They were produced using a unique manufacturing process, which involved frying thin slices of onions and then coating them in potato chip batter. The result was a hybrid snack that combined the best of both worlds.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Despite their popularity, Bubble Up Onion Chips were discontinued in the late 1990s. The exact reasons for their disappearance remain unclear, but some speculate that production costs or consumer preferences may have played a role. The news of their discontinuation was met with widespread disappointment and nostalgia from consumers. Many launched online campaigns and petitions to bring back the beloved chips, but to no avail.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
Over the years, there have been sporadic reports of Bubble Up Onion Chips making a comeback. In 2015, Frito-Lay released a limited edition “Throwback” line of retro snacks, which included Bubble Up Onion Chips. Unfortunately, they were only available for a brief period and did not receive a permanent reintroduction. As of now, Bubble Up French Fried Onion Chips are no longer in production and remain a cherished memory for those who were fortunate enough to try them.
A Nostalgic Snack Echoes from the Past
Despite their absence, the memory of Bubble Up Onion Chips lives on in the hearts and minds of snack lovers everywhere. Their innovative flavor and unique texture continue to inspire nostalgia and longing, proving that sometimes, the best things in life are worth remembering.
X. Snack #9: Pop-Tarts ® Cherry Crunch (Kellogg’s)
Pop-Tarts ® Cherry Crunch, brought to us by the renowned breakfast food company, Kellogg’s, is a delectable and scrumptious pastry treat. This snack boasts an alluring cherry filling nestled between two layers of golden, flaky crust. The star ingredient that sets this variant apart from the rest is its crunchy coating, providing a satisfying texture contrast to the gooey cherry filling.
Description:
The Pop-Tarts Cherry Crunch measures approximately 3 inches by 6 inches, making it a convenient size for snacking on-the-go. The pastry base is soft yet sturdy to hold the sweet and tangy cherry filling that oozes out with each bite. The cherry flavor is rich and authentic, leaving a delightful taste sensation. The crunchy coating adds an exciting element to the snack, creating a delightful combination of textures that keeps consumers coming back for more.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
Originally introduced in the late 1960s, Pop-Tarts ® gained immense popularity due to their convenience and affordability. The pastry treats were first frozen, then heated up in a toaster or oven for a short period, resulting in a perfectly cooked snack. Kellogg’s continued expanding their product line throughout the 1970s and 1980s, introducing numerous flavors to cater to various tastes. The Cherry Crunch variant became a fan favorite due to its unique texture and delicious cherry filling. However, production came to a halt in the early 2000s.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Despite the love and adoration from consumers, the Cherry Crunch Pop-Tarts were discontinued due to decreasing sales and changing consumer preferences. The decision was met with disappointment and frustration from dedicated fans, leading to numerous online petitions and social media campaigns advocating for its revival.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
In response to the outpouring of support, Kellogg’s occasionally reintroduces the Cherry Crunch Pop-Tarts as limited edition flavors during special promotions or holidays. The demand for this beloved variant remains high, with fans eagerly purchasing and sharing them on social media platforms. While not available year-round, the Pop-Tarts Cherry Crunch continues to bring joy to cherished consumers everywhere whenever it makes a comeback.
XI. Snack #10: Ring Dings (Hostess)
Description: Ring Dings, a beloved creation from the Hostess Brands, are delicious pastry rings filled with creamy vanilla or chocolate filling and topped with a smooth chocolate frosting. The golden cake ring is encircled by the iconic chocolate drizzle, creating an irresistible treat that melds sweet and decadent flavors in every bite.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
Created in 1953, Ring Dings were among the first offerings from the Hostess Bakeries, which had recently introduced the popular Twinkie. The snack quickly gained popularity in the 1960s and 70s due to its affordability and accessibility, as well as the nostalgia it brought to consumers. At their peak, Ring Dings were produced in large quantities, with over 7 billion sold annually.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
The decline in Ring Dings’ production began in the late 1990s, as consumer preferences shifted towards healthier options. By the early 2010s, the Hostess Brands faced significant financial difficulties and was forced to discontinue several products, including Ring Dings. The discontinuation caused an outpouring of nostalgia and frustration from consumers who had grown up with the snack and cherished its unique taste.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
Since their discontinuation, there have been several attempts to bring back Ring Dings. In 2015, a small bakery in Pennsylvania began producing handcrafted versions of the treat, selling them locally and at flea markets. However, these Ring Dings were not officially branded by Hostess. As of now, there are no official announcements from the company regarding a revival of Ring Dings. Despite their absence on store shelves, the fond memories and cravings for this classic snack remain strong among generations of fans.
X Snack #11: Choco-Bites (Hershey’s)
Description:
Choco-Bites, a beloved chocolate candy from the esteemed Hershey’s Chocolate Company, are bite-sized morsels of milk chocolate heaven. Each piece is encased in a thin, crunchy shell, providing an enticing texture contrast to the smooth, velvety milk chocolate interior. The candy’s diminutive size makes it a perfect treat for satisfying sweet cravings in between meals.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
First introduced by the Hershey’s Chocolate Company in the late 1960s, Choco-Bites quickly gained popularity due to their unique combination of textures and flavors. The candy was produced using a specialized process that ensured each piece had an even coating of chocolate and a consistent crunchy shell. Choco-Bites became synonymous with convenience, as they could easily be carried in pockets or purses for on-the-go indulgence.
1960s to 1970s:
The candy enjoyed immense popularity during the late 1960s and 1970s, often appearing in lunch boxes, school vending machines, and movie theaters. Hershey’s continued to innovate, introducing new varieties such as Choco-Mint Bites and Choco-Almond Bites.
1980s to Present:
Despite their success, Choco-Bites production was discontinued in the 1980s due to declining sales. Hershey’s attributed this to changing consumer preferences and an increased focus on healthier snacking options.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Discontinuation: – Choco-Bites were discontinued due to declining sales, which were attributed to changing consumer preferences and a shift towards healthier snacking options.
Consumer Reactions: – The announcement of Choco-Bites’ discontinuation sparked a wave of nostalgia and disappointment among consumers. Petitions were started, social media campaigns were launched, and public appeals were made to Hershey’s to bring back this cherished candy.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
Revival Attempts: – In response to the public outcry, Hershey’s experimented with reviving Choco-Bites in various forms, such as limited edition releases and reformulations. However, none of these attempts gained long-term success.
Current Availability: – Unfortunately, Choco-Bites are no longer in production, leaving fans of this iconic candy to search for them in the secondary market or hold onto cherished stashes they may have saved over the years.
XI Snack #12: Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip
Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip, a beloved
candy
treat from the Swift Sweets Company, is renowned for its distinctive sticky, sweet, and fruity characteristics. This
snack
, available in various flavors such as strawberry banana, cherry, grape, watermelon, orange, and blue raspberry, is a delightful combination of
tart powdered fruit flavors
and sweet dip.
Description of the Candy
Each Fun Dip packet contains a stick with several small packets, each containing a flavored powder. Users dip the stick into water and then into the flavor packet, allowing the powder to form a sweet, fruity coating. This process creates an enjoyable, messy snacking experience that leaves hands and faces covered in colorful residue. The combination of the stick’s initial dryness followed by the wet and sweet fruity flavor makes Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip a unique, memorable snacking experience.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline
First introduced in 1954 by the Swift Sweets Company, Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip gained immense popularity throughout the 1960s and 70s. With its affordable price point, vibrant colors, and enjoyable texture, it was a staple snack for children at schools, picnics, and birthday parties. Swift Sweets continued producing the candy until the late 1980s when they discontinued production due to changes in consumer preferences and increasing competition from other snack brands.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions
The reasons for the discontinuation of Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip remain unclear. However, many consumers believe that changing market trends and increased competition from other snack brands led to its demise. The announcement of discontinuation sparked a wave of nostalgia among consumers, leading many to stockpile remaining Fun Dip supplies and even hoard empty packets as collector’s items.
E. Attempts at Revival and Current Availability
Throughout the years, several attempts have been made to revive Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip. In 2016, Hershey’s acquired the Swift brand, which included the rights to manufacture and sell the iconic candy. Since then, limited production runs have been released through specialty retailers and online marketplaces, generating significant hype among collectors and fans. However, due to the complexities of reformulating the product and securing enough production capacity, Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip remains a rare and coveted treat for many.
XSnack #15: Klondike Ice Cream Bars (Nestlé)
Description: The Klondike Ice Cream Bar is a classic frozen treat produced by Nestlé. This delight consists of vanilla ice cream coated with a thick layer of rich chocolate. The contrast between the velvety vanilla and the bold, smooth chocolate creates an unforgettable taste sensation. Each bar is individually wrapped, making it a convenient option for satisfying sweet cravings on-the-go.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
Origination: The Klondike Ice Cream Bar was first introduced by Nestlé in the mid-1950s. It quickly gained popularity due to its unique combination of ice cream and chocolate, setting it apart from other frozen treats on the market.
Origination (Continued):
Popularity and Production: Throughout the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s, Klondike Ice Cream Bars became a staple in American freezers. Production peaked during the summer months when families sought out delicious and refreshing treats to cool off from the heat. The bars were manufactured in various sizes, including miniature versions for children.
Production Timeline:
- 1950s: Introduction of the Klondike Ice Cream Bar
- 1960s-1980s: Peak production and popularity
- Late 1980s – Present: Variations and discontinuation
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Discontinuation: In the late 1980s, Nestlé discontinued the production of the original Klondike Ice Cream Bar due to declining sales and increasing competition from other brands.
Consumer Reactions: Many consumers were devastated by this decision, as the Klondike Ice Cream Bar held nostalgic value for them. Numerous petitions and campaigns were launched in hopes of bringing back the beloved treat. However, Nestlé did not respond to these efforts.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
Revival Attempts: Several independent ice cream manufacturers, such as Edy’s and Dairy Queen, introduced their versions of the Klondike Ice Cream Bar in response to consumer demand. These bars varied slightly in taste and appearance but provided a sense of nostalgia for those missing the original.
Current Availability:
Nestlé Revival: In 2013, Nestlé announced the return of the Klondike Ice Cream Bar under its Drumstick brand. The new bars featured a different shape and a slightly altered design but shared the classic chocolate-vanilla combination. Although not an exact replica of the original, this revival brought joy to many longtime fans.
Current Availability (Continued): Today, the Klondike Ice Cream Bar can be found in various forms and flavors under different brand names. While not identical to the original, these treats continue to offer the delicious combination of chocolate and vanilla ice cream that has captivated consumers for generations.
XSnack #16: Zotz Candy (Ferrara Candy Company)
Zotz candy, produced by the Ferrara Candy Company, is an iconic and enigmatic treat known for its explosion of flavors when bitten. This bite-sized confection comes in various shapes, including discs and rods, and is coated with a thin layer of hard candy shell, which initially masks its true essence.
Description of the Candy:
Upon taking a bite, the outer layer shatters, revealing its hidden core. This core is composed of multiple layers, each infused with distinct and often unexpected flavors that can range from sour to sweet, fruity to spicy. The interplay between the candy’s outer and inner layers creates a unique sensory experience that leaves consumers yearning for more.
Origination, Popularity, and Production Timeline:
Zotz candy was first introduced by the Ferrara Pan Candy Company in 1958. The treat quickly gained popularity due to its innovative flavor combination and unexpected “explosion” when bitten. Throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, Zotz was a staple in American candy vending machines and school lunches. However, its production came to a halt in the late 1980s as consumers’ preferences shifted towards other sweets.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Consumer Reactions:
Despite its discontinuation, Zotz candy maintains a cult following. Many consumers recall the treat fondly as a unique and memorable part of their childhoods. The reasons for its discontinuation remain unclear, but it is believed that declining sales and changing consumer preferences played a significant role.
Attempts at Revival and Current Availability:
In recent years, there have been sporadic attempts to revive Zotz candy. Ferrara Candy Company reintroduced the treat in limited quantities during the late 1990s and early 2000s, but it was ultimately discontinued once again. In 2013, the company announced plans to bring back Zotz as part of its retro candy line, but this has yet to materialize. Currently, Zotz candy is not widely available in stores or online, making it a coveted and elusive treat for those who remember and long for its unique flavor experience.
XVI. Conclusion
As we come to the end of our journey through the 16 discontinued snacks that have left a profound impact on consumers, it’s important to reflect on the significance of these beloved treats.
Recap
From the crisp, sweet taste of Wonder Bread’s Honey Nut Toast Crisps to the tangy, cheesy goodness of Lay’s Kettle Cooked Western Bacon Dip, each snack represented a unique moment in time. Their brief presence in grocery stores and supermarkets served to bring joy, comfort, and excitement to consumers’ lives, often becoming cherished memories.
Nostalgia
The discontinuation of these snacks, however, has left a bittersweet taste in our collective memories. Baskin-Robbins’ Polar Pizza Ice Cream, for instance, was a fun and innovative twist on traditional ice cream. Its absence is still felt by fans who fondly recall sharing this unique treat with their families and friends. The same can be said for the other discontinued snacks, each one evoking strong feelings of nostalgia, longing, and a sense of loss.
Share Your Memories
We invite you to join the conversation and share your own memories and experiences with discontinued snacks. Perhaps there’s a particular snack that holds a special place in your heart, or maybe you have a funny story about trying to find a long-lost favorite. By sharing these stories, we can preserve the history of food and consumer culture, ensuring that future generations will have a better understanding of the role that these snacks played in our lives.
Preserving History
Preserving the history of food and consumer culture is an important endeavor, as it helps us to better understand our past and the trends that have shaped our present. The discontinued snacks we’ve explored in this article are just a small part of this rich history, but they serve as a reminder that even the simplest pleasures can leave a lasting impact. So let us continue to celebrate these memories and the snacks that brought them to life.
