The 1970s and 1980s were a golden era for unique and innovative food products that have since vanished from store shelves. Here are 29 memorable items from that time, each holding a special place in the hearts of those who grew up during these decades. These foods are nostalgic reminders of a period when food innovation was at its peak and childhood memories were often made in the aisles of grocery stores.
1. Reggie! Bar
Named after the legendary baseball player Reggie Jackson, the Reggie! Bar was a hit both on and off the field. Introduced in the late 1970s, it combined chocolate, caramel, and peanuts, offering a delightful treat for sports fans and candy lovers. Each bar was like a home run in your mouth, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
The excitement surrounding the Reggie! Bar was short-lived, however, as it was discontinued in the early 1980s. Yet, its legacy lives on, reminiscent of a time when candy and sports collided.
2. Keebler Magic Middles
Keebler Magic Middles were an enchanting treat that brought joy to many snack time rituals. Each shortbread cookie, filled with a luscious fudge or peanut butter center, was a bite of pure magic. Launched in the 1980s, they became a staple in lunchboxes and a delight for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Despite their popularity, these magical cookies vanished around 2011, leaving behind a legacy of sweet memories. Fans still reminisce about the gooey centers that made every bite a delightful surprise.
3. Jell-O Pudding Pops
Jell-O Pudding Pops were a summer sensation that turned pudding into a delightful frozen treat. Available in chocolate, vanilla, and swirl, these pops were creamy, cool, and perfect for hot days. Introduced in the 1980s, they quickly became a freezer favorite for families.
Despite their popularity, Jell-O Pudding Pops faded out around 2010, leaving behind a wave of nostalgia. Their unique texture and flavors are still fondly remembered by those who enjoyed them as a childhood treat.
4. Hi-C Ecto Cooler
Hi-C Ecto Cooler was the ghostly green drink that haunted the dreams of many 80s kids. Launched as a tie-in with the Ghostbusters franchise, its citrusy flavor and eye-catching color made it an instant hit. Every sip was like a burst of ectoplasmic excitement, making it a lunchbox staple.
Though briefly revived, Ecto Cooler vanished from shelves once again, leaving fans thirsty for its return. Its unique flavor and pop culture connection make it a cherished memory of 80s childhoods.
5. Bonkers! Candy
Bonkers! Candy was more than just a treat; it was an experience. With its fruit-flavored coating and burst of juicy center, each candy piece delivered a delightful surprise. Popular in the 1980s, Bonkers! were known for their playful commercials that left a lasting impression.
Though they disappeared from the market, their nostalgic charm remains. Revived occasionally, Bonkers! still harken back to a time of whimsy and fun, when candies were as entertaining as they were delicious.
6. Crystal Pepsi
Crystal Pepsi was a clear twist on the classic cola that took the early 90s by storm. Its transparent appearance was a bold departure from tradition, offering a caffeine-free alternative that intrigued soda enthusiasts. Though its taste was familiar, the novelty lay in its see-through nature.
Despite its initial buzz, Crystal Pepsi’s run was short-lived, yet it left a lasting impact on pop culture. Periodic revivals keep the memory alive, stirring up nostalgia for those who remember its original debut.
7. Kaboom Cereal
Kaboom Cereal was a whimsical breakfast delight that brought circus fun to the kitchen table. Its colorful clown mascot and star-shaped marshmallows made breakfast an exciting adventure for kids throughout the 70s and 80s. Every spoonful was a burst of fruity flavor and fun.
Sadly, Kaboom Cereal was discontinued in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of playful breakfast memories. Its cheerful packaging and unique taste are fondly remembered by those who grew up enjoying it.
8. Bugles Originals like Buttons & Bows
Bugles Originals, with shapes like Buttons & Bows, were a playful twist on traditional corn snacks. Each piece was a different shape, adding an element of surprise to snack time. Introduced in the 1970s, they became a beloved treat for those who enjoyed their crunchy texture and savory flavor.
These unique shapes disappeared from shelves, but their memory remains with those who relished their novelty. Bugles Originals are a testament to a time when snacks were as much about fun as they were about flavor.
9. Screaming Yellow Zonkers
Screaming Yellow Zonkers were more than just popcorn; they were a pop culture phenomenon. Their bright yellow color and sugary glaze set them apart from other snacks, while the quirky packaging and whimsical marketing endeared them to fans.
Though they vanished in 2007, Screaming Yellow Zonkers are remembered for their bold flavor and fun presentation. They remain a nostalgic favorite for those who enjoyed their distinctive taste and the playful spirit they embodied.
10. Marathon Bar
The Marathon Bar was more than just a candy; it was a challenge. Its 8-inch length, marked with a ruler on the wrapper, dared you to savor every chewy, caramel-filled bite. Launched in the 1970s, the bar’s unique braid added to its allure, drawing in candy enthusiasts of all ages.
However, the Marathon Bar mysteriously disappeared from shelves by 1981, leaving fans longing for its return. Though gone, it remains a fond memory for those who often measured their sweet tooth satisfaction in inches.
11. Punky’s Candy
Punky’s Candy was a colorful burst of flavor wrapped in punk-rock style. These oval sweet-tarts, popular in the late 80s, were known for their bold taste and edgy packaging. Each piece was a tribute to the rebellious spirit of the era, making them a hit among kids and teens.
Although they disappeared in the early 90s, Punky’s Candy remains a vivid memory for those who embraced its unique style. It’s a reminder of a time when candy was as much about attitude as it was about taste.
12. PB Max
With its crunchy texture and sweet chocolate coating, PB Max was a peanut butter lover’s dream. Introduced in the late 1980s, it quickly became a favorite among kids and adults alike who craved the perfect balance of nutty and sweet. Each bite offered a satisfying crunch, followed by the creamy richness of peanut butter.
Despite its popularity, PB Max was discontinued in the mid-1990s due to shifting consumer tastes and market demands. Its absence left a void in the snack aisle, but its memory lives on in the hearts of those who savored it.
13. Fruit Wrinkles (Fruit Corners)
Fruit Wrinkles, from the Fruit Corners brand, were a chewy, flavorful alternative to traditional fruit snacks. Known for their intense fruit taste, these strips were a popular addition to 80s lunchboxes. Each bite was a burst of natural sweetness, capturing the essence of sun-ripened fruit.
Though no longer available, Fruit Wrinkles left a lasting impression on those who enjoyed their vibrant flavors. They are fondly remembered as a lunchtime favorite that brought a touch of fruity fun to school days.
14. Hidden Treasures Cereal
Hidden Treasures Cereal turned breakfast into a daily adventure. Each corn square contained a fruity surprise, adding an element of mystery to every bowl. Popular in the early 90s, this cereal captivated kids with its unexpected bursts of flavor.
Though it disappeared from shelves, Hidden Treasures remains a nostalgic trip for those who reveled in its playful concept. It represents a time when breakfast cereals were innovative and exciting, creating lasting memories with each spoonful.
15. Pizza Spins
Pizza Spins were a unique snack that brought the beloved taste of pizza to chip form. These spiral-shaped chips delivered a burst of cheesy, savory flavor that captured the essence of a classic pizza pie. Introduced in the late 70s, they quickly gained a devoted following.
Despite their initial success, Pizza Spins vanished from the market, leaving behind a legacy of delicious memories. Fans still reminisce about their distinctive taste and the joy of indulging in pizza-flavored snacks.
16. Wheatables Crackers
Wheatables Crackers were a wholesome snack choice for those seeking a satisfying crunch with a touch of whole grain goodness. Introduced by Keebler in the late 80s, these crackers were a hit for their simplicity and savory taste. Each bite offered a delightful balance of texture and flavor.
Though they were discontinued in 2014, Wheatables remain a cherished memory for those who appreciated their hearty nature. They represent a time when snacks were both nutritious and delicious, providing a tasty treat for all ages.
17. Ipso Mints and Candy
Ipso Mints and Candy brought a playful twist to the world of minty confections. These stackable, Lego-style drops came in a variety of flavors, adding a fun dimension to the typical mint experience. Popular in the late 80s, they were a hit with kids and adults alike.
Despite their unique concept, Ipso Mints and Candy disappeared from the market, leaving behind a fond memory of sweet creativity. They remain a nostalgic favorite for those who enjoyed their interactive and flavorful nature.
18. Choco Bliss Snack Cakes
Choco Bliss Snack Cakes were a chocolate lover’s paradise. With a rich, moist cake exterior and a creamy filling, these treats offered a decadent indulgence. Popular in the 80s, they were a beloved dessert for those seeking a sweet escape.
Though they have since vanished from shelves, Choco Bliss Snack Cakes are remembered for their delightful taste and satisfying texture. They remain a nostalgic favorite for those who long for the simple pleasures of a creamy chocolate treat.
19. Butterfinger BBs
Butterfinger BBs were bite-sized delights that packed the iconic Butterfinger taste into crunchy, peanut-buttery balls. Introduced in 1992, they quickly won over fans with their irresistible flavor and fun size. Each piece was a small explosion of taste and texture.
Sadly, Butterfinger BBs were discontinued in 2006, despite a passionate fanbase. Their memory lingers as a reminder of a time when snacks were exciting and full of character, capturing the essence of sweet nostalgia.
20. Orbitz Drinks
Orbitz Drinks were a truly out-of-this-world beverage experience. Launched in the 90s, these fruit drinks featured floating edible balls that intrigued and puzzled consumers. The quirky visual appeal and unique texture made Orbitz a standout drink of its time.
Though their novelty wore off, Orbitz Drinks remain a fond memory for those who dared to try them. They symbolize an era of experimentation and whimsy in the beverage industry, leaving a lasting impression on adventurous drinkers.
21. Tab (soda)
Tab, launched in the 1960s, was Coca-Cola’s first diet soda and a pioneer in the industry. Its unique taste and iconic pink can made it recognizable and beloved throughout the decades. In the 1980s, it was a staple for those seeking a lower-calorie alternative.
Though officially discontinued in 2020, Tab remains a nostalgic favorite for its groundbreaking role in the soda market. It’s remembered as a symbol of a time when diet drinks were just beginning to make their mark on consumer habits.
22. Fruitopia
Fruitopia was the fruity beverage that captured the hearts of 90s consumers with its vibrant flavors and psychedelic marketing. Each bottle was like a burst of fruit-filled happiness, offering a refreshing escape from the ordinary.
Though eventually replaced by newer offerings, Fruitopia’s legacy endures as a symbol of 90s culture and innovation in the beverage world. Fans still reminisce about its colorful packaging and the joyful experience it brought to every sip.
23. RownTree’s Opal Fruits
RownTree’s Opal Fruits were a UK candy sensation, known for their juicy, fruit-flavored chewiness. Launched in the 1960s, they became a beloved treat across generations, offering a sweet burst of fruity delight with every piece.
Though rebranded as Starburst, Opal Fruits hold a nostalgic place in the hearts of those who remember their original name and packaging. They symbolize a time when candy was simple, sweet, and full of vibrant flavor.
24. Seven Up Bar (Pearson’s)
The Seven Up Bar was a confectionary curiosity, containing seven different flavored fillings in one chocolate bar. Each segment offered a new taste adventure, making it a must-try for candy enthusiasts.
Though it disappeared from shelves, the Seven Up Bar remains a fond memory for those who experienced its unique concept. It’s a reminder of a time when candy innovation was at its peak, offering surprises with every bite.
25. Milkshake Bar (Hollywood Candy)
The Milkshake Bar by Hollywood Candy was a lighter alternative to traditional chocolate bars. With its malted nougat center, it offered a creamy, airy texture that satisfied sweet cravings without the heaviness.
Discontinued in the 1980s, the Milkshake Bar is remembered for its unique taste and nostalgic charm. It represents a time when candy bars were crafted with creativity and flair, appealing to those who enjoyed a lighter confection.
26. Heinz Toast Toppers
Heinz Toast Toppers were a unique spread that added a burst of flavor to ordinary toast. Available in various savory flavors, they were a convenient and tasty way to elevate simple meals.
Though discontinued, Heinz Toast Toppers remain a fond memory for those who enjoyed their versatility and taste. Fans continue to hope for their return, reminiscing about a time when meal prep was simple yet flavorful.
27. Cadbury Spira
Cadbury Spira was a white chocolate delight that captivated UK candy lovers with its unique spiral design. The bars were a visual and taste sensation, offering a smooth, creamy texture that melted in your mouth.
Though pleas for its revival continue, Cadbury Spira remains a cherished memory for those who indulged in its sweet, swirling goodness. It’s a reminder of a time when candy was both an art form and a treat.
28. Walkers Worcester Sauce Crisps
Walkers Worcester Sauce Crisps were a tangy snack-time favorite in the UK, offering a zesty kick that was both bold and satisfying. Their distinctive flavor made them a beloved choice for those who craved something different.
While they have been briefly revived, these crisps continue to be a nostalgic favorite for those who enjoyed their unique taste. They symbolize a time when snack flavors were adventurous and full of character.
29. Dunkaroos
No lunchbox was cooler than one with Dunkaroos inside. These cookie-and-frosting packs ruled the ’90s with their deliciously addictive charm. With each pack, a playful kangaroo mascot invited you to dip cookies into creamy, rainbow sprinkle frosting.
As you peeled back the lid, it was like opening a treasure chest filled with sugary delight. Briefly discontinued, Dunkaroos made a triumphant return due to overwhelming fan demand. They remain one of the most iconic snacks ever, capturing the essence of 90s nostalgia.
Did you know? Dunkaroos were inspired by the Australian treat, the Tim Tam.
