Food trends come and go, but some leave such a lasting impression—especially in childhood—that fans petition for their return decades later.
These discontinued foods, ranging from colorful snacks to sugary breakfast cereals, often hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up enjoying them. There’s nothing quite like childhood treats to bring back fond memories of simpler times.
Let’s revisit some of the most missed and talked-about discontinued foods that still have a large fanbase.
Surge
Surge, a citrus-flavored soda from Coca-Cola, was introduced in 1997 to rival Pepsi’s Mountain Dew. Known for its bright green color and bold taste, it developed a cult following before being discontinued in the early 2000s. The dedicated fan base managed to bring it back for a brief revival through an online campaign.
Altoids Sours
Altoids Sours, once a beloved treat for those who preferred a tangy kick, were discontinued in 2010. Their unique, intense, sour flavor sets them apart from other candies on the market. Fans still hope for a revival, lamenting their absence in nostalgic candy discussions online.
Planters Cheez Balls
Planters Cheez Balls were a staple snack from 1980 until their discontinuation in 2006. These cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth snacks were sorely missed on movie nights and at parties. After much public demand, they were reintroduced in 2018, proving that sometimes, nostalgia can bring back the snacks we love.
Crystal Pepsi
Crystal Pepsi, the clear cola marketed as a pure and caffeine-free option, was launched in 1992 but pulled by 1993. Its brief run still captures the imagination of soda enthusiasts who recall its unique marketing campaign.
McDonald’s Arch Deluxe
The Arch Deluxe was McDonald’s attempt to create a more sophisticated burger for adult tastes, introduced in 1996. Despite a massive marketing campaign, it failed to catch on and was discontinued.
Fruitopia
Fruitopia, a fruit-flavored drink by Coca-Cola, captured the 90s spirit with its vibrant packaging and eclectic flavors. Despite a strong following, it was phased out in the U.S. as tastes shifted towards less sugary drinks. Fruitopia remains a symbol of 90s culture, remembered fondly by those who grew up during its heyday.
Swoops
Swoops, introduced by Hershey’s in 2003, were slices of chocolate shaped like Pringles. Their novel shape and familiar flavors (like Reese’s and Almond Joy) made them intriguing, yet they were discontinued in 2006.
Wonder Ball
The Wonder Ball, a hollow chocolate ball with candy inside, brought joy with its surprises and was particularly popular in the late ‘90s. Concerns over the safety of the toy inside led to its discontinuation.
Pepsi Blue
Pepsi Blue was launched in 2002 as a berry-flavored cola alternative to traditional sodas. Despite a strong initial following, its unusual color and flavor profile led to its discontinuation by 2004. The cult following it developed continues to reminisce about its distinct taste and color.
Tart’ n Tinys
Tart’ n Tinys were small, colorful, fruit-flavored candies that were coated or uncoated, known for their tangy taste. Discontinued in the early 2000s, they were brought back by popular demand without the candy shell, much to the dismay of original fans.
Jell-O Pudding Pops
Jell-O Pudding Pops, once a popular frozen treat in the 1980s and ‘90s, combined the creamy texture of pudding with the fun of a popsicle. Bill Cosby famously promoted them, enhancing their appeal. They disappeared from stores in the late ‘90s.
Rice Krispies Treats Cereal
A favorite amongst kids, Rice Krispies Treats Cereal took the classic taste of the homemade bars and turned it into a breakfast treat. Introduced in the 1990s, it offered a crunchier, marshmallow-filled alternative to the traditional Rice Krispies. It was discontinued to the disappointment of many.
Hubba Bubba Squeeze Pop
Hubba Bubba Squeeze Pop was a liquid candy that came in a tube, popular in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Its intense flavor and gooey texture made it a hit among kids who enjoyed its novelty. The product has since been discontinued.
Butterfinger BB’s
Butterfinger BB’s were small, ball-shaped versions of the traditional Butterfinger bar, introduced in 1992. Their bite-sized form made them perfect for snacking, but they were discontinued in 2006. Fans of the original still hold out hope for their return.
Heinz Colored Ketchup
Heinz introduced EZ Squirt ketchup in bright colors like Passion Pink, Funky Purple, and Stellar Blue, aiming to make meals more fun for kids. Despite initial excitement, sales dwindled, and the product was discontinued.
Dunkaroos
Dunkaroos, the snack that defined many 90s childhoods, featured cookies meant for dunking into a small container of frosting. Discontinued in the U.S. in 2012, they left a void in the snack aisle that no other cookie could fill.
Yogos
Yogos were small, yogurt-covered, fruit-flavored snacks that became popular in the early 2000s. They were discontinued, to the dismay of those who loved their sweet, tangy flavor and chewy texture. The snack is still missed today, with former fans reminiscing about its unique taste and fun, colorful appearance.
Oreo O’s Cereal
Oreo O’s, a cereal that offered the flavor of Oreo cookies in breakfast form, was discontinued in 2007. Its sweet, chocolaty taste and crunchy texture made it a favorite among kids and adults alike. The cereal was briefly brought back in 2017, to the delight of its loyal fan base.
Waffle Crisp Cereal
Waffle Crisp Cereal, introduced by Post Foods, offered the taste of syrupy waffles in a crunchy cereal form. Discontinued in 2018, this cereal made a return in 2021, backed by consumer demand.
Carnation Breakfast Bars
Carnation Breakfast Bars were a convenient and tasty meal replacement bar popular in the 1980s. They offered a nutritious start to the day with a range of flavors that appealed to busy adults and kids alike. Discontinued in the 1990s, they are still missed for their convenience and delicious taste.
Mickey’s Parade Ice Pops
Mickey’s Parade Ice Pops featured iconic Disney characters in a frozen treat form, making them a hit among children. Discontinued in the late ‘90s, they were a fun way to enjoy a cool snack. These pops were so popular, there is an entire fan page on Facebook dedicated to bringing them back.
