Grab a ticket, hop on the nostalgia train, and let’s take a trip back to simpler times. Remember running home from school, throwing your bag in the corner, and heading straight to the kitchen for a snack?
The ’90s and early ’00s were the golden age of snacks, and many of our favorite childhood treats sadly, no longer exist. From funky shapes to novel packaging, these snacks were more than just food; they were an experience.
Here’s a look back at some of the best childhood snacks that unfortunately, you can’t find on supermarket shelves today.
1. Dunkaroos: The Fun Dip-and-Eat Snack
Nothing spelled fun quite like Dunkaroos. This iconic snack was a hit among kids, thanks to its combo of tiny biscuits and a small tub of frosting for dipping. Dunkaroos weren’t just a snack; they were a fun activity that made snack time an adventure. Each packet gave us the freedom to dunk our biscuits in as much or as little frosting as we wanted, making each bite a personalized experience.
However, to the dismay of many ’90s kids, Dunkaroos were discontinued in 2012. Although there have been rumors of a comeback, it’s not the same as seeing this childhood favorite on the grocery store shelves. And let’s face it, nothing beats the original Dunkaroos experience.
2. 3D Doritos: A Crunchy Blast from the Past
3D Doritos were the ultimate snack upgrade. Who could resist those puffed up, three-dimensional triangles filled with cheesy goodness? Not only were they more fun to eat than regular Doritos, but they also had a unique texture that added to their appeal. It was always a treat to open a bag and see those small, pillow-like chips staring back at you.
Despite their popularity, 3D Doritos were discontinued in the early 2000s. While there’s been a recent revival, it’s hard to forget the original 3D Doritos and the crunchy joy they brought to our childhood snack times.
3. Nestlé Wonder Ball: The Sweet Surprise Inside
Remember the thrill of opening up a Nestlé Wonder Ball? Inside this chocolate sphere was a small plastic capsule containing candy or stickers. The Wonder Ball was more than just a chocolate treat; it was a two-in-one delight that came with a sweet surprise. It was always exciting to crack open the chocolate shell and discover what was waiting inside.
Though the Wonder Ball was a fan favorite, it was discontinued in the mid-2000s due to safety concerns. Its absence left a hole in the hearts of many kids who looked forward to the sweet surprise that came with each Wonder Ball.
4. Squeezit: The Drink with a Twist
Squeezit was the drink that made hydration fun. This brightly-colored, fruit-flavored beverage came in a squeezable plastic bottle, making it a hit at lunchtime and after-school snack breaks. The fun of Squeezit didn’t just lie in its taste but in the act of squeezing the bottle to get every last drop of the drink.
Unfortunately, Squeezit was discontinued in 2001. Today, no beverage has quite managed to replicate the fun and novelty of squeezing your drink out of a plastic bottle.
5. Shark Bites: The Fruit Snack with a Bite
Shark Bites were the fruit snack that made us feel like we were on a mini ocean adventure. These gummy snacks, shaped like sharks, were a fun and tasty way to enjoy fruit flavors. The combination of different shark shapes and vibrant colors made each packet of Shark Bites a surprise.
Though these shark-shaped treats were a staple of many ’90s kids’ snack times, they were sadly discontinued. Now, the snack aisle feels a little less adventurous without Shark Bites.
6. Fruit String Thing: The Edible Art Project
The Fruit String Thing was a snack that both parents and kids loved. Not only was it a tasty treat, but it also doubled as a fun activity. The Fruit String Thing was a flat, sugary, fruit-flavored snack that kids could peel into different shapes and eat. It was like having an edible art project in your lunchbox.
Regrettably, the Fruit String Thing was discontinued in the early 2000s. Today, no snack quite matches up to the fun and creativity that came with this childhood favorite.
7. Oreo O’s: The Breakfast of Champions
Oreo O’s was the breakfast cereal that made mornings exciting. This cereal brought together the rich taste of Oreos and the crunchiness of cereal, making breakfast feel like a treat. Who could resist starting their day with a bowl of miniature, Oreo-flavored loops?
Despite its popularity, Oreo O’s was discontinued in the U.S. in 2007. Though it made a comeback in 2017, many of us still miss the original Oreo O’s and the sweet start it gave to our mornings.
8. Butterfinger BB’s: The Bite-Sized Candy Bar
Butterfinger BB’s were the perfect bite-sized treat. These small, round candies were a mini version of the classic Butterfinger candy bar. Each BB was packed with the same crispety, crunchety, peanut-buttery flavor that we loved in the original Butterfinger.
However, in 2006, Butterfinger BB’s were replaced by Butterfinger Bites. Though similar, they just don’t have the same nostalgic charm as the original BB’s. The world of bite-sized candies hasn’t been the same since.
9. Planters PB Crisps: The Peanut Butter Snack
Planters PB Crisps were a peanut butter lover’s dream. These crisps were shaped like peanuts and filled with creamy peanut butter. The combination of the crispy shell and smooth filling made PB Crisps a snack to remember.
Despite their deliciousness, PB Crisps were discontinued in the mid-90s. To this day, many of us are still hoping for a comeback of this peanut buttery delight.
10. Hi-C Ecto Cooler: The Ghostbusters-Inspired Drink
Hi-C Ecto Cooler was the drink that made us feel like we were part of the Ghostbusters team. This bright green, citrus-flavored beverage was inspired by the popular movie franchise. Drinking Ecto Cooler was like being in on a cool secret, making it a favorite among kids.
Regrettably, Ecto Cooler was discontinued in 2001. Though it made a brief return in 2016, it hasn’t been the same without this Ghostbusters-inspired drink in the beverage aisle.
In conclusion, these snacks were more than just food; they were a part of our childhood memories. From the fun shapes to the unique packaging and flavors, these snacks brought joy and excitement to snack time. Even though they’re no longer available, they live on in our hearts and memories. Here’s to hoping for a sweet and snack-filled future that’s just as fun and exciting as our past.
