14 Once-Everywhere Snacks That Quietly Disappeared
This list looks back at 14 snacks that were once found everywhere but have since vanished from shelves.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Many snacks we loved as kids are no longer around today. Some were pulled because of low sales; others just faded away without much notice. This list brings back memories of 14 treats that were once a big deal and quietly disappeared over time.
1. Altoids Sours
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Introduced in the early 2000s, Altoids Sours quickly gained a cult following for their intense sour flavors like tangerine and raspberry. Despite their popularity, they were discontinued in 2010, leaving fans scouring the internet for remaining tins.
2. Doritos 3D
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Launched in the late ’90s, Doritos 3D offered a puffed, airy twist on the classic chip. Though they made a brief comeback in 2020, the original’s unique texture and flavors remain unmatched in the hearts of fans.
3. Butterfinger BB’s
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These mini versions of the classic Butterfinger bar were a ’90s favorite, perfect for snacking on the go. Discontinued in the mid-2000s, their absence still leaves a void for many chocolate lovers.
4. Planters Cheez Balls
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Known for their bright orange hue and addictive flavor, Planters Cheez Balls were a party staple. After being discontinued, fan demand led to a limited re-release, proving their lasting appeal.
5. Fruitopia
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Introduced in the ’90s, Fruitopia’s vibrant flavors and psychedelic ads made it a cultural icon. Despite its popularity, it was phased out in the early 2000s, leaving fans thirsty for its return.
6. PB Max
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This Mars creation combined peanut butter, oats, and a cookie base, all enrobed in chocolate. Despite strong sales, it was discontinued in the ’90s, allegedly due to the Mars family’s dislike of peanut butter.
7. Gator Gum
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Gator Gum came out in the ’70s and ’80s and was meant to help with thirst, like a sports drink in gum form. People thought it was interesting at first and gave it a try. However, over time, fewer people purchased it, and it gradually disappeared from stores.
8. Oreo Big Stuf
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This oversized Oreo was a dream come true for cookie lovers in the ’80s. Its massive size made it a novelty, but it was eventually discontinued due to declining sales.
9. Jell-O Pudding Pops
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These frozen treats were a staple of ’80s and ’90s childhoods. Despite their popularity, they were discontinued, leaving fans to attempt homemade versions in an effort to recapture the magic.
10. Dunkaroos
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Combining cookies with frosting, Dunkaroos were the highlight of many lunchboxes. After a hiatus, they made a triumphant return in 2020, much to the delight of nostalgic fans.
11. Crystal Pepsi
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Crystal Pepsi was introduced in the early ’90s and gained attention because it appeared clear, unlike regular cola. People were curious at first and gave it a try. However, it did not remain popular for long, so it was taken off the shelves, although it has been brought back a few times for nostalgia’s sake.
12. Pudding Roll-Ups
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Pudding Roll-Ups were like Fruit Roll-Ups but with a creamy, pudding-like twist. They sounded fun, but the texture was strange, and not many people liked the taste. They quietly left store shelves and are rarely remembered today.
13. Wow Chips
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Wow Chips were made with Olestra, a fat substitute that promised fewer calories. At first, people loved the idea, but the chips caused stomach problems for many. They quickly lost their appeal and were pulled from most stores.
14. Tato Skins
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Tato Skins were thick, crunchy chips that tasted like baked potatoes and were everywhere in the late ’80s and early ’90s. People loved how hearty they were compared to regular chips. Over time, they slowly vanished, and while some brands attempted to revive them, they were never quite the same.