14 Outrageous Products That Somehow Got Approved

In the world of product development, some items slip through the cracks of logic and reason. From questionable gadgets to eyebrow-raising inventions, these products defy common sense yet managed to land on store shelves. While some were short-lived, others gained cult followings despite their absurdity. They offer a strange mix of innovation, humor, and confusion that leaves people scratching their heads.

1. The Pet Rock

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In the 1970s, someone had the idea to sell smooth stones as pets, packaged in boxes with air holes and straw. People actually bought them by the millions, complete with an instruction manual. It was a marketing gimmick that turned into a national craze. Despite offering nothing but a literal rock, the product saw major commercial success. It remains a legendary example of clever branding beating logic.

2. Canned Cheeseburger

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Designed as a convenient meal option, this product delivers a full cheeseburger in a can. The idea was aimed at campers and travelers needing portable food. However, the taste, texture, and appearance left much to be desired. Critics described it as soggy and unappetizing, yet it passed all food safety requirements. It remains one of the strangest ready-to-eat meals ever sold.

3. USB Pet Rock

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Taking the original Pet Rock to a digital level, this version connected to your computer via USB. It did absolutely nothing and served no purpose other than to confuse coworkers. Still, it was sold as a “zero-resource” device that wouldn’t crash your system. Somehow, people still bought it as a novelty gift. It proves that absurdity can sell if the packaging is clever enough.

4. Baby Mop Onesie

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This outfit for infants featured mop-like tendrils attached to the front and arms. The concept was that as babies crawled, they would “clean” the floor. While clearly marketed as a joke, it raised real safety concerns. Critics questioned whether it encouraged parents to see their babies as cleaning tools. Despite the backlash, the product was actually available online and shipped worldwide.

5. Diet Water

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Marketed as a low-calorie alternative to regular water, this product made waves in parts of Asia. Since water already has zero calories, the concept baffled consumers. It was sold with claims of added benefits, but offered no actual nutritional value. Many suspected it was simply a marketing ploy to cash in on diet trends. Even so, it found shelf space in real stores for a time.

6. Inflatable Toast

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Billed as the “emergency toast you never knew you needed,” this inflatable slice was packaged like a joke. It could be blown up and used as a toy or gag gift. While harmless, it served no practical purpose at all. Yet it made its way into novelty shops and online carts around the world. It’s a perfect example of a product that sells simply because it’s ridiculous.

7. Bacon-Scented Mustache

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This quirky item combined two things people find amusing: mustaches and bacon. Designed as a fake mustache with a meaty aroma, it aimed to appeal to bacon lovers and pranksters. The scent was strong and not exactly pleasant after a while. Still, it managed to make its way through production and into stores. It remains a bizarre blend of fashion and food obsession.

8. Fish Training Kit

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Yes, someone created a kit that claims you can teach your pet fish tricks. It included hoops, tunnels, and instructions for behavior training. While fish can show some learned behaviors, the expectations here were wildly optimistic. The kit was sold online with serious intent, not as a parody. It’s a product that challenges both patience and reality.

9. Toilet Golf

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This set allows users to practice their putting skills while sitting on the toilet. Complete with a miniature green, club, and ball, it’s more absurd than athletic. While humorous, it raises questions about hygiene and practicality. Yet it became a popular gag gift, especially during holidays. It highlights how novelty often trumps usefulness in consumer appeal.

10. Breathable Coffee

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Instead of drinking your morning brew, this product lets you inhale it. Packaged in an aerosol-like device, it claimed to offer a quick caffeine boost without the calories. Experts doubted its effectiveness and safety, but it still hit niche markets. Some users found it interesting, though many said it lacked real impact. 

11. Shower Mic Sponge

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This bath sponge was shaped like a microphone so you could sing while cleaning yourself. Marketed toward bathroom performers, it combined hygiene with entertainment. It had no additional features beyond its appearance. Still, it made a splash in gift shops and online marketplaces. It’s silly, harmless, and just odd enough to catch on.

12. Fat-Free Potato Chips with Olestra

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These chips promised full flavor without the fat, using a fat substitute called Olestra. However, they caused digestive issues in many consumers, including cramps and something politely called “anal leakage.” Despite warnings, they were approved for sale in the US. Sales initially boomed before public backlash slowed them down. 

13. Beer for Dogs

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This alcohol-free drink is formulated specifically for dogs, complete with flavors like beef or chicken. Though safe for pets, many wondered why dogs needed their own version of beer. Some owners bought it as a novelty or to celebrate occasions with their pets. It is still sold in pet shops and online. It walks the line between love for animals and marketing gimmick.

14. Gold-Plated Staples

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Intended for the ultra-luxurious office, these staples are literally plated with gold. They perform exactly like regular staples but at an astronomical price. The only purpose is to add glamour to paperwork. Despite being unnecessary, they were manufactured and marketed as luxury items. They serve as a reminder that not all status symbols make sense.

• Tags:
• weird products
• outrageous products
• approved items
• product development