Flavors of the ‘90s: Top Discontinued Foods We Want Back

By: Riley Brown | Published: Jan 05, 2023

Ah, the ‘90s were such a fantastic time for food and drinks–so many delicious products to choose from! Unfortunately, not all of these treats are still around today, which is quite a pity. 

But never fear–some of our favorite childhood snacks can still be found if you look hard enough. Here’s our list of delightful drinks and foods from the ‘90s that we’d love to have back again!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch: A Sweet Way to Start the Day

Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal has been an iconic must-have for breakfast since the 1990s. Its crunchy, cinnamon-y flavor delighted the young and old, and it’s no wonder why. Although once discontinued, it was brought back in 2014.

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Meaning this beloved favorite continues to capture the hearts and taste buds of kids and adults alike–not just as a cereal but in all its delicious variations, such as yogurt, bars, waffles, and more. With Cinnamon Toast Crunch, every day is a tasty adventure!

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Surge: Remember the Freshness

Back in 1996, Coca-Cola made a splash by releasing Surge, an exciting soft drink–given the name Urge, in Norway. The company released this beverage to compete with Pepsi’s entry into the market with its release of Mountain Dew. 

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By 1997, Surge had been released in the United States under its more recognizable name. Despite gaining popularity among the ‘90s youth, it was unfortunately discontinued in 2003. Thankfully, some signs have emerged that this classic could make a comeback soon!

Nabisco Giggles: Say Cheese! 

Are you feeling a bit nostalgic? We sure are! Nabisco Giggles may be gone, but they will never be forgotten! These snack cookies had a unique flavor that was a hit in the ’90s and still lingers in our hearts today. Their unforgettable broad smile and creamy filling made the perfect combination for a delicious but short-lived treat. 

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While it may be too much to hope for, we can’t help but wish to find Nabisco Giggles with each grocery run. But, alas, it doesn’t seem like Nabisco has any plans to bring back these beloved treats, so until then, we’ll just have to keep them alive in our memories.

Crystal Pepsi: The Taste was Crystal Clear

If you’ve been craving the nostalgia of Crystal Pepsi from the ’90s, it’s now available again–but with a bit of a twist! Originally pitched as a healthier alternative to conventional soft drinks, the clear beverage was marketed as caffeine-free. 

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Crystal Pepsi was discontinued in 1993, but it has since returned with a new, slightly caffeinated formula. So now you can enjoy this classic beverage with a modern spin.

Bubble Beeper: Go Back in Time

Everyone knows that all gum looks the same at first glance, but there’s something special about Bubble Beeper gum. It quickly became a cult favorite and fashion accessory in the ’90s thanks to its unique packaging, which could be turned into a stylish clip-on coin purse. 

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Sadly, over time the bubble gum got caught up in a few controversies and eventually disappeared from the shelves, but it is still remembered fondly by those who recall it!

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Twix Cookies-n-Creme Bars: Their Time was Short but Sweet

Say hello to the delicious Twix Cookies-n-Creme Bars! These yummy chocolate bars were released in 1990. Each bar is a chocolate cookie coated in cream with a layer of milk chocolate. While they weren’t as popular as their classic caramel bar counterparts, they proved incredibly popular amongst those who tried them. 

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They were discontinued after just a year, and Twix fans had to wait 30 years before they got the chance to enjoy them again. But in 2020, their prayers came true with the long-awaited return of the beloved Cookies-n-Creme Bars! So if you’re looking for something new and exciting to indulge in, look no further than the delicious Twix Cookies-n-Creme Bars!

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Squeezits: A Blast from the Past!

Squeezits burst onto the scene in the 1980s and immediately captured the attention of kids everywhere with their vibrant, eye-catching colors. With various exciting flavors and even a few special black bottles filled with a surprise color inside, Squeezits quickly became a beloved favorite for many. 

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As the ’90s came to a close, sales began declining, and the beloved drink was eventually discontinued in 2001. But the memory of Squeezits will live on in the hearts of those who loved it!

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Oatmeal Swirlers: Relive Your Childhood in One Delicious Bite!

Oatmeal has often been regarded as a less-than-appealing breakfast option, that is, until Oatmeal Swirlers hit the scene and successfully managed to revamp the classic breakfast food–by adding some fun, color, and flavor! Along with each package of instant oatmeal came a package of fruit jelly paste which allowed kids to get creative and transform their boring bowl of oats into an edible work of art. 

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This product was a huge hit in the ‘80s and ‘90s and even inspired similar products such as Dinosaur Eggs Oatmeal. Little ones had a delicious, exciting breakfast to look forward to every morning with this treat!

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Josta Soda: Get Josta-Licious!

In the ’90s, Pepsi introduced something that still has legions of fans begging for its return–Josta Soda! This “first of its kind” energy drink captivated the US beverage market from 1995 to 1999. 

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Despite pleas from devotees of Josta Soda and attempts to “Save Josta” with a dedicated website, Pepsi has yet to bring it back–but never say never!

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Hi-C Ecto Cooler Juice Boxes: Taste the '90s!

In the 1980s through 1990s, audiences around the world went wild when they first saw the beloved classic movie Ghostbusters. To commemorate this, Hi-C released Ecto Cooler Juice Boxes, filled with the delicious flavors of orange and tangerine. 

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To make them even more special, the Ecto Cooler makers changed the juice’s color to a spooky green, just like the ectoplasm seen in the movie! The juice boxes were available from 1989 to 1997, with a short period of availability again in 2016.

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Trix Swirls: A Swirling Sensation

For those of us who grew up in the ’90s and early 2000s, Trix Swirls were the perfect way to satisfy our taste for something unique, flavorful, and (we thought) healthy. These iconic yogurt snacks came in a variety of flavors, each two-toned in color when you opened them, sweetened naturally with an irresistible blend. 

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Unfortunately, Trix decided to discontinue the Swirls at some point, leaving many of us feeling confused and disappointed. While it’s not certain why they were discontinued, it’s likely that profits weren’t stable enough to keep them around.

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P.B. Crisps: Crisp & Crunchy Goodness

Say hello to Planters’ P.B. Crisps: a tasty, peanut-shaped graham cracker cookie with a decadent peanut butter filling! First released in 1992, these delectable treats had a short yet memorable run, being taken off the shelves in 1994. 

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Despite the popularity, Planters gave an unexpected explanation for their departure–they simply were too good to stay around! We can only imagine how delicious they must have been.

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Soda-Licious Fruit Snacks: Soda Deliciousness in a Bite 

If you remember begging your parents at the grocery store for those yummy Soda-Licious Fruit Snacks from Betty Crocker, you certainly weren’t the only one!

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Betty Crocker teamed up with 7-Up to create a range of fruit snacks that were both fruity and reminiscent of some of the most popular soft drinks of the time. We’ll always look back fondly on this delicious treat that left us in the decades gone by.

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Butterfingers BB's: Bite into the Bliss of Nostalgia

Ah yes, the beloved Butterfingers BB’s! From their debut in 1992 to their demise in 2006, these tiny, marble-sized chocolate bites managed to capture the hearts of candy lovers across the country. 

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Not only did these bite-sized treats come with a delicious combination of crunchy and chewy goodness, but they were also popular enough to be advertised on shows like The Simpsons. Sadly, it’s been over a decade since we’ve been able to savor the flavor of a Butterfingers BB–a shame, indeed!

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Wonderball: Surrender to the Wonders of Childhood

Wonderball was the candy offering what childhood dreams were made of. It featured a chocolate shell filled with a surprise treat–which later changed to hard candy. Unfortunately, little ones were known to scoff down the ball–prize and all–before breaking the chocolate shell, posing a choking hazard.

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In 1997, production of these beloved sweets was halted. The company tried again in 2000, but it still proved unsafe, and production ceased for good in 2007.

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Apple Newtons: Take a Bite out of Fond Memories

Need a fruity snack? Look no further than Nabisco’s classic Fig Newtons! Not only are they delicious, but they are also available in several flavors for even more enjoyment. At one time, Nabisco even released an apple flavor of their Newtons, which unfortunately did not last the decade. 

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But don’t despair! The baked apple and cinnamon version later released offers a similar flavor that everyone can enjoy. So next time you need a fruity snack, reach for a packet of Fig Newtons!

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Skippy Squeeze Stix: Remember the Messy Goodness

Say hello to Skippy Squeeze Stix, a no-fuss and mess-free way of enjoying Skippy peanut butter or chocolate peanut butter on the go! This type of snack is similar to the popular Gogurt snacks you can still find in stores today. 

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But why did this revolutionary on-the-go snack disappear off the shelves? There’s no clear answer, but it could be due to inadequate marketing or rising awareness about peanut allergies.

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​​Fruit-Shaped Trix Cereal: Relive Fruity Fun Times 

You can most certainly find Trix in the cereal aisle today, but what you see inside won’t look like the Trix you grew up eating.  

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First introduced in 1991, the fruity shapes of the cereal have since been replaced by simple popped corn puffs that give this breakfast favorite a whole new look. Experience a classic with a twist and pour yourself a bowl today!

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Fruitopia: Refresh your Sense of Wonder 

Revitalize your taste buds with Fruitopia–Coca-Cola’s classic and beloved fruit-flavored soft drink! With flavors such as strawberry, kiwi, tangerine, watermelon, and more, Fruitopia first debuted in 1994 and ran until 2003. 

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Although it is primarily discontinued, you might still find this classic bubblegum-colored beverage in some countries. If you’re looking for a similar flavor experience, check out Minute Maid’s citrus drinks for an equally refreshing delight!

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Hershey's BarNone: Revel in Rich Chocolatey Reminiscence 

Hershey has brought sweet joy to chocolate lovers for decades, especially with their beloved BarNone candy bar. Initially, the chocolate bar consisted of chocolate wafers, peanuts, a chocolate filling, and a milk chocolate coating. 

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Hershey changed the recipe in 1992 to include wafers, caramel, peanuts, and a chocolate coating, and it wasn’t as popular. So, sadly, the BarNone was discontinued in 1997.

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Keebler Baked Munch 'Ems: Crunch Your Way Back in Time 

If you were in need of a satisfyingly scrumptious bite to eat in the ’90s, Keebler Baked Munch ‘Ems would have been the perfect go-to option. With their delicious array of flavors–including original, ranch, cheddar, sour cream and onion, and more–these crunchy chips promised a mouth-watering snack every time. 

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Unfortunately, as competition in the cracker market grew, Keebler was eventually forced to discontinue their classic Munch ‘Ems later in the decade. These tasty treats were lost to the ages.

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Jell-O-1-2-3: Sweeten Your Childhood Memories with Jiggle-tastic Joy 

Kraft first released their innovative Jell-O-1-2-3 all the way back in 1969! This layered treat had the potential to transform into a delicious three-tiered masterpiece. The classic Jell-O bottom, a creamy custard-like middle layer, and a foamy top made it a childhood favorite. 

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Although it was once hugely popular in the ’90s, Jell-O-1-2-3 was discontinued in 1996. But let’s remember this magical and delicious long-lived treat with fondness. Or why not try making your own today?

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Shark Bites: Take the Plunge into Nostalgia 

Gone are the days when you were grabbing a handful of Shark Bites from the candy aisle to satisfy your sweet tooth. The classic ’90s gummy snack was a fan-favorite for its marine-inspired shapes and yummy flavor, but sadly the formula has changed and probably won’t quite live up to expectations if you enjoyed these snacks in the past.

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For those who miss the beloved gummies of the past, there’s still plenty to choose from–classic gummy snacks are still trendy among kids–but nothing’s quite like Shark Bites!

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Keebler Magic Middles: Indulge in the Magic of Yesteryear 

Are you ready to experience a big blast of flavor? Keebler Magic Middles tantalize the taste buds with a surprise twist–the delicious filling is baked right into each cookie! So instead of the traditional cookie with a cream-filled center, enjoy the decadent peanut butter or fudge filling that adds a touch of deliciousness throughout the entire cookie. 

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Whether you’re ready or not, we’re sorry to say–just kidding! These cookies hit the shelves in the ’80s and ’90s and have since been discontinued. Keep dreaming!

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Orbitz Water: Float Away on a Wave of Reminiscence 

Orbitz Water was a burst of flavor that hit the shelves in 1997, but sadly only lasted for a year before the travel company Orbitz acquired the name. With delicious flavors like Blueberry Melon Strawberry and Pineapple Banana Cherry Coconut, these drinks were not only tasty, but they looked like lava lamps thanks to the unique, gelatinous balls that floated around the bottle. 

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This eye-catching look made Orbitz Water stand out from other flavored waters. It’s a shame we had to say goodbye to such a fun and shimmery drink.

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Melody Pops: Have a Sweet and Tune-Filled Treat 

Melody Pops, the renowned candy whistle, was once a popular treat created by Chupa Chups. With its irresistible sweetness, the Melody Pops were soon a staple in any grocery store’s checkout line–until 2015, when they went out of production for a few years. 

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However, Melody Pops have recently made their triumphant return and can now be found in many stores! So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on these amazing candies now!

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PB Max: Yumminess from Way Back When 

The PB Max candy bars from Mars were a massive hit among Americans when they hit store shelves in 1989 and 1990. With a delicious combination of cookie and peanut butter filling covered in milk chocolate, these treats grossed around $50 million in sales in just one year! 

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Sadly, the PB Max candy bars were pulled off of store shelves for a strange reason–one of the Mars brothers didn’t seem to be a fan of peanut butter. Although it was a short-lived success, the PB Max candy bars made an unforgettable impression on people’s taste buds during their time in stores.

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Pop-Tarts Crunch: Take a Crunchy Trip Down Memory Lane 

Do you remember the ’90s? It was a time when our much-loved snacks made their way into the breakfast cereal aisles! Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts Crunch was one such delightful treat to grace our grocery stores. 

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The tiny, crunchy Pop-Tarts were perfect for your spoon, with flavors ranging from strawberry to brown sugar cinnamon. Sadly, this tasty cereal was only available from 1994 to 1995, leaving us wanting more.

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Life Savers Holes: Enjoy Life's Sweeter Moments 

People of all ages remember the iconic Life Savers from days gone by, but most don’t recall the Life Savers Holes. These classic candies were the centers of the Life Savers rings–how clever! Though they were delicious, they regrettably didn’t stay around for long. 

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As early as 1991, they were removed from store shelves due to safety concerns about choking hazards. But, whether you were lucky enough to get a taste of these treats or not, the memories of the sweet and nostalgic Life Savers Holes will remain with us forever.

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Flintstones Push-Up Pops: A Prehistoric Party

Step back in time and reminisce on the classic ’90s snack of Flintstones Push-Up Pops, featuring our favorite characters from The Flintstones! These sherbert treats were a surefire way to cool off during a hot summer day, and just thinking of them brings a wave of nostalgia. 

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Unfortunately, as time went on, this beloved classic slowly disappeared throughout the early 2000s and was no longer available, much to our dismay. But let’s bask in the delight of cherished memories from a simpler time when all we needed for a sweet treat was a Flintstones Push-Up Pop!

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Jumpin' Jack Cheese Doritos: Taste Buds Will Jump for Joy 

Do you remember your taste buds jumping with excitement for Jumpin’ Jack Cheese Doritos? We do!  Endorsed by the legendary Jay Leno in 1990, they were worthy of all the praise. These irresistible Monterey Jack cheese-flavored chips were the perfect balance of zesty and cheesy goodness. 

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Sadly, these chips didn’t last long, but if you were lucky, maybe you were able to get your hands on the limited-edition throwback flavor that was briefly brought back in 2013. So forget the classic nacho cheese Doritos; our hearts are forever with the Jumpin’ Jack Cheese flavor–a truly unique snack experience!

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Mickey's Parade Ice Pops: Feel Like a Kid Again 

Kids will always be drawn to snacks associated with their favorite characters, and Disney knew this when they released Mickey’s Parade Ice Pops in the ’90s. 

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These treats were more than just colorful character-themed packaging; the ice pops themselves were actually shaped like beloved Disney figures such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy–making them even more appealing to the younger generation.

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Triple Tower Push Pops: Rediscover Retro Fun 

It’s tough for a kid to pick the perfect flavor. But Triple Tower Push Pops had the perfect solution. With three delicious flavors in a single package, kids could satisfy their sweet tooth without having to choose just one flavor.

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Although you may not find them in stores today, this iconic candy was around from 1986 to the early 2000s, making it a real treat for those who grew up with it! So start your search online, and you, too, can enjoy the tastes of all three flavors in each package again.

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Hostess Chocodiles: Bite into Heavenly Memories 

A blast from the past! In the 1980s, Hostess Chocodiles made their debut. A delicious combination of Twinkies and chocolate, these snack cakes brought sugary joy to all. Named after Hostess’ original mascot, Chauncey the crocodile, Chocodiles were a big hit in the ’90s. 

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Sadly, they were discontinued in 1999. But the good news is, after a 15-year hiatus, Chocodiles are back! While they may not be the same, their fun-sized form makes them an easy snack to enjoy!

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Snapple Element: Be in Your Element

Since its launch in 1972, Snapple has become a recognizable brand that continues to bring new flavors and styles of drinks to the market. By the late 1990s, they had introduced the unique Snapple Elements Drinks range–featuring Earth, Rain, Sun, and Fire–and later added Meteor and Gravity too.

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Unfortunately, these Snapple Elements Drinks are no longer available in their classic glass bottles, although you can still get your hands on them in other forms.

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Jell-O Pudding Pops: Enjoy Jiggly Joyousness 

Jell-O Pudding Pops were all the rage during the ‘80s and ‘90s–a beloved treat for kids and adults alike. These frozen goodies resembled popsicles, except instead of sweetened fruit juice, they were filled with Jell-O pudding. 

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They were hugely popular and highly successful for the Jell-O brand but eventually had to be discontinued due to the rising health consciousness among consumers.

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Cheetos Paws: Be Carefree with Childhood Cheesy Deliciousness

If you were a fan of Cheetos Paws, you might be delighted to hear that, technically speaking, they’re not completely gone. But it would undoubtedly be challenging to find them as conveniently as you could back in the ‘90s. 

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With their distinctive look, shaped like Chester Cheetah’s paws, these snacks were a hit when they first came out in 1990, yet they sadly disappeared by 1993. To get your hands on some today, you may have to do an online search–we recommend ordering a few bags!

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Reggie!: The Bar That Brought You Back in Time

Suppose you craved something sweet as a child–Reggie! Bars were your answer! A classic combination of crunchy peanuts and a delicious layer of caramel, all enveloped in creamy milk chocolate, these bars were introduced in 1976 and sadly discontinued by 1982. 

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However, they made a brief comeback during the 1990s but subsequently disappeared off the shelves once again–much to the disappointment of many. The name was inspired by the famous American baseball player Reggie Jackson, who played for the Yankees.

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Oreo Big Stuf: Relive All That ‘90s Stuf

If you were a kid in the ’90s, you probably remember Oreo Big Stuf– a nostalgic treat that unfortunately only lasted seven years before it was discontinued. 

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This supersized version of the classic Oreo cookie was sold individually instead of in sleeves, and it’s no surprise why–they were huge! Sadly, this ’90s favorite was taken off the shelves due to a combination of rising health awareness and decreased profits.

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Doritos 3Ds: Taste the Tangy, Tasty Trio

If you had the pleasure of enjoying Doritos 3Ds as a lunchtime snack or as an after-school treat in the ’90s, you know just how popular they were! We’re sorry to tell you they were discontinued in the early 2000s. 

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What set them apart was their unique shape. They were puffier than regular Doritos, with an air-filled center that gave you something special to nibble on. Though you won’t find Doritos 3Ds anymore, their spirit lives on in the form of Doritos Jacked 3D, released in 2015.

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