Craving a hit of 90s nostalgia? You are not alone. From lunchbox legends to after school staples, many favorite snacks disappeared or quietly changed over the years. Nostalgia marketing and vocal fan campaigns have pushed some back onto shelves, while others remain cult favorites that people still hope to see return.
Below you will find nine iconic treats. We cover what made them irresistible, why they faded away, and whether a true comeback is likely. Ready to unwrap the memories? Let’s dig in.
1. Dunk-a-Roos
Image Credit: kirsch - CC-by-2.0 / Wiki Commons.
Dunk-a-Roos were a hit in the 90s, offering a fun and interactive snack for kids. The concept was simple yet thrilling. A pack of shortbread cookies with a small tub of frosting for dipping. This unique combination of sweet taste and interactive eating kept kids hooked and parents continually buying it. This snack was much loved and is still missed by many who grew up in that era.
The return of Dunk-a-Roos has been a popular topic of discussion online, especially among the 90s kids. The snack’s retro appeal and nostalgic factor make it a high-demand item. With the current trend of bringing back classic food items, this could be a potential gold mine for the manufacturers. Recent reports suggest that there may be plans to bring this favorite back to the shelves soon.
2. Wonder Balls
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Wonder Balls were chocolate spheres filled with candy surprises. Manufactured by Nestle, this snack was not only delicious but also engaging, as kids looked forward to discovering the surprise inside. However, safety concerns led to its discontinuation, leaving many fans disappointed.
Today, there is a surge in the popularity of surprise element snacks. Kinder Eggs have been massively successful in the market. Reviving Wonder Balls could potentially tap into this current trend. According to this article, Wonder Balls were briefly brought back in 2016 due to popular demand, demonstrating their continued appeal.
3. PB Max
Image Credit: Old television commercial - Fair use / Wiki Commons.
PB Max was a candy bar made by Mars Inc. It was a combination of creamy peanut butter and oats on top of a whole grain cookie, all covered in milk chocolate. Despite being well-loved by peanut butter enthusiasts, it was discontinued due to the Mars family's dislike of peanut butter.
The current trend of high-protein snacks and the evergreen popularity of peanut butter suggest a potential market for PB Max. In fact, Bon Appetit lists PB Max as one of the most missed discontinued foods. The return of PB Max could potentially meet the market demand for protein-rich, on-the-go snacks.
4. Planters PB Crisps
Image Credit: Planters.
Planters PB Crisps were a snack with a unique peanut shape and a peanut butter filling. Despite their popularity, they were discontinued in the mid-90s, much to the disappointment of their fans.
Given the current trend of reviving nostalgic food items, there is a chance for PB Crisps to make a comeback. Food and Wine report that fans have started petitions for their return, indicating their continued popularity and potential market.
5. Squeezit
Squeezit was a popular drink in the 90s. It was a fruit-flavored beverage that came in a fun, squeezable plastic bottle. Despite its popularity among kids, it was discontinued in 2001.
With the current trend of healthy, on-the-go beverages, a healthier version of Squeezit could potentially be successful. Mashed.com discusses the possibility of Squeezit's return, given the current market trends.
6. Crispy M&M's
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Crispy M&M's were a popular variant of the classic M&M's. The combination of crunchy and creamy textures made them a favorite among many. However, they were discontinued in 2005, leading to widespread disappointment.
On popular demand, Crispy M&M's were brought back in 2014, demonstrating the power of consumer voices and nostalgia. The Daily Meal reports on their successful return, highlighting the resurgence of old-school snacks.
7. Shark Bites
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Shark Bites were a popular fruit snack in the 90s. The gummy candies came in various shark shapes, adding an element of fun. Despite their popularity, they were discontinued, leaving fans craving for more.
With the current trend of fun, interactive snacks, Shark Bites could potentially make a successful return. Delish.com lists them as one of the most missed discontinued snacks, indicating their continued appeal.
8. 3D Doritos
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3D Doritos were a unique take on the classic Dorito chips. They were puffed up and had a hollow center, providing a different snacking experience. Despite their initial popularity, they were discontinued in the early 2000s.
However, 3D Doritos made a comeback in 2021, tapping into the nostalgia of their fans and the trend of unique snacking experiences. USA Today reports on their successful return, showing the potential of reviving old-school snacks.
9. Fruitopia
Image Credit: Ebay.
Fruitopia was a line of fruit-flavored drinks introduced by Coca-Cola in the 90s. With its vibrant packaging and unique flavors, it quickly became a hit among teens. However, it was phased out in the early 2000s.
With the current trend of health-conscious beverages, a revamped version of Fruitopia could potentially be successful. Thrillist lists Fruitopia as one of the most missed old-school drinks, suggesting a potential market for its return.
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