You’ve probably noticed that some candies from the past just don’t seem to be around anymore. These old-school sweets once filled candy jars and kids’ hands, but over time, many have quietly disappeared from store shelves. While some vintage treats still pop up now and then, others have faded into obscurity.
This article helps you rediscover six old-school candies no one seems to eat today, giving you a taste of nostalgia and a peek into forgotten flavors. Whether you’re curious about what those candies were like or you want to remember the snacks from your younger days, it’s a fun look back at sweets that didn’t stand the test of time.
Circus Peanuts
If you’ve ever seen bright orange, peanut-shaped marshmallow candies, those are circus peanuts. They have a unique banana flavor that tends to surprise or confuse people.
You might find them more in retro candy shops than in regular stores these days. They were once common penny candies back in the 1800s but now mostly spark nostalgia.
Some companies, like Spangler, still make them using a mix of sugar, gelatin, and corn syrup. Whether you love them or don’t get the hype, circus peanuts are definitely a candy from another era.
Necco Wafers
If you’ve ever come across a roll of Necco Wafers, you know they’re pretty different from most candies today. These thin, chalky discs have been around since 1847 and were originally made by a pharmacist.
You might find their texture unusual, but they come in a variety of classic flavors. While they’ve lost some popularity, Necco Wafers still hold a special place for fans of retro sweets.
They’re gluten-free and allergen-friendly, which makes them an easy choice if you want something old-school but simple. Keep an eye out if you want to try a piece of candy history.
Bit-O-Honey
If you’ve ever tried Bit-O-Honey, you know it’s a chewy taffy with a honey flavor and bits of almond. It first appeared in 1924, making it one of the oldest candies still around.
You might not see it as often today, but you can still find Bit-O-Honey at Walmart or online. It’s a classic treat that’s easy to snack on whenever you want a sweet, nostalgic bite.
Mary Janes
If you grew up with Mary Janes, you probably remember their peanut butter and molasses flavor. They were a staple candy for over a century.
But now, you won’t find them on store shelves like before. The candy was discontinued after 104 years, which surprised many people who loved the classic taste.
If you miss Mary Janes, you might want to try Bit-O-Honey. It has a similar chewy texture with a honey and almond flavor that fills that nostalgic gap pretty well.
Wax Lips
You might remember Wax Lips as those oversized red lips you could wear and chew on. They were never really about taste but more about having fun and making people laugh.
These candies are made from colored paraffin wax and became popular in the 1970s. Today, you can still find them sold by Tootsie Roll Industries under the name Wack-O-Wax.
While not everyone eats wax lips anymore, they’re still a playful candy you can use for jokes or costumes. If you want a sweet blast from the past, they’re worth a try.
Charleston Chew
If you’re into chewy candy, Charleston Chew might ring a bell. It’s got a marshmallow-flavored nougat center wrapped in a chocolate coating.
You can eat it straight up or freeze it for a crunchy twist. It dates back to the 1920s, named after the Charleston dance craze.
Though not as popular today, it still has fans who think it’s an underrated classic worth trying again.