Food Fads From The 1990s You Totally Forgot About
By Jack Ripley | May 6, 2024
Rice Krispies Treats Cereal
Are you ready to embark on a deliciously nostalgic journey through the weird world of the '90s as we delve into the super snacks of yesteryear that may have slipped your memory but not your taste buds. From the mesmerizing liquid wonder of Orbitz to the irresistibly crunchy Butterfinger BBs, and the flaky indulgence of Pillsbury Toaster Strudel, we're about to unlock a treasure trove of forgotten snack time favorites.
Join us as we reminisce about the game-changing Lunchables that redefined lunchboxes and the mouthwatering explosion of flavor that was Gushers. Whether you're a '90s kid or just curious about what was happening in this decade of maximalism, we'll take you down memory lane. Keep reading to rediscover the snacks that made snack time in the '90s an unforgettable adventure, and maybe even inspire your next trip to the snack aisle.
Rice Krispies Treats Cereal was a must-eat '90s breakfast treat that managed to capture the essence of homemade Rice Krispies Treats in a convenient cereal form. This delightful cereal took the classic Rice Krispies and elevated them to a whole new level by infusing them with the sweet, gooey flavor of marshmallow. Each spoonful was a miniature indulgence, with the satisfying combination of crispy rice and chewy marshmallow satisfying the cravings of both kids and adults.
The '90s saw a surge in the popularity of nostalgic and playful breakfast options, and Rice Krispies Treats Cereal fit perfectly into that trend. Its memorable commercials featuring the catchy "Snap, Crackle, Pop" jingle only added to the cereal's appeal.
Pizza Hut Stuffed Crust Pizza
Pizza Hut's Stuffed Crust Pizza was an absolute game changer when it came to dinnertime delights. This iconic '90s creation flipped the pizza paradigm by offering a tantalizing surprise hidden within the crust—gooey, molten cheese. It transformed the typically overlooked crust into a delectable treat, with each bite delivering a burst of cheesy goodness. Stuffed Crust Pizza tapped into the era's appetite for indulgence, pushing the boundaries of pizza innovation. It was more than just a pizza; it was a cheesy revelation that left pizza lovers everywhere craving that unforgettable cheesy pull with every slice. The commercials featuring catchy jingles and animated cheese pulls added to the pizza's mystique, making it a must-have dinner choice.
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel emerged as a quintessential '90s breakfast snack that transformed the mundane morning meal into an exciting indulgence. These flaky pastries came in a variety of flavors, with their signature icing packets allowing for personalized frosting artistry. The process of toasting and decorating each strudel became a cherished ritual for kids and adults alike. Toaster Strudel tapped into the '90s desire for convenience without sacrificing flavor, offering a warm, gooey, and indulgent start to the day. Its memorable advertising jingle, "Something better just popped up at breakfast," mirrored the sentiment of a generation craving breakfast innovation. Even as time has moved forward, Pillsbury Toaster Strudel remains a nostalgic symbol of a simpler time when a delicious pastry could make mornings brighter, one icing swirl at a time.
Orbitz
Orbitz, the non-carbonated fruit-flavored beverage, holds a special place in the pop culture pantheon of the 1990s. With its mesmerizing, suspended-in-space aesthetic, complete with tiny edible balls floating within the liquid, it embodied the quirky and experimental spirit of the decade. Orbitz stood out as a testament to the era's fascination with the bizarre and unusual, both in design and taste. It was a beverage that pushed the boundaries of what a drink could be, offering a whimsical, sensory experience that matched the neon-colored, alternative '90s vibe.
Fruit Gushers
Fruit Gushers, those irresistibly juicy little nuggets, were undoubtedly a must-eat after-school snack in the '90s that everyone coveted in their lunchboxes. These bite-sized treats tantalized taste buds with their promise of a fruity explosion with every bite. Their vibrant colors and catchy commercials made them a lunchbox essential, and the thrill of biting into a Gusher to reveal the sweet, gooey center was a sensation that never got old. Fruit Gushers captured the '90s spirit of fun and indulgence, and their popularity stemmed not just from their mouthwatering taste but also from the joy they brought to schoolyards and playdates.
Dunkaroos
Dunkaroos, those delectable '90s snack sensations, hold a special place in the hearts and palates of a generation. These bite-sized cookies paired with creamy frosting for dipping tapped into the '90s spirit of fun and indulgence. Their colorful packaging, complete with a kangaroo mascot, captured the essence of carefree snacking that defined the era. Dunkaroos weren't just a snack; they were a mini-adventure, allowing kids to customize their dipping experience and mix and match flavors. The excitement of dunking those cookies into frosting cups created a sense of culinary empowerment that you needed when you after getting radical. While Dunkaroos may have faded from the snack aisle in the 2000s, they remain a cherished symbol of '90s nostalgia, a reminder of simpler times when a sweet treat could transport you to a world of playful delight with every dunk.
Hubba Bubba Bubble Tape
Hubba Bubba Bubble Tape was the ultimate '90s snack that every young person coveted, and for good reason. With its iconic, tape-like packaging and an array of fruity, bubblegum flavors, it captured the essence of carefree fun that defined the decade. Unrolling a generous length of Bubble Tape and tearing off a chunk was a ritual that felt like unwrapping a candy treasure. The sheer novelty of its presentation, combined with the promise of endless bubble-blowing potential, made it an instant hit. It wasn't just gum; it was a fashion statement, a conversation starter, and a symbol of childhood indulgence. Hubba Bubba Bubble Tape wasn't just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it was about savoring the nostalgia of a time when something as simple as gum could become a cherished cultural icon.
Butterfinger BBs
Butterfinger BBs were undoubtedly a quintessential '90s snack that left a crunchy, peanut buttery imprint on the era's snacking landscape. These bite-sized morsels took the beloved Butterfinger candy bar and turned it into a poppable sensation. The spherical shape and the satisfying crunch were perfectly tailored to the on-the-go snacking ethos of the decade. Butterfinger BBs captured the essence of indulgence with their sweet, peanut-buttery flavor and the added bonus of no-mess consumption. Their playful marketing campaigns, featuring The Simpsons, further cemented their status as an iconic '90s treat.
Fruitopia
Fruitopia, the beloved '90s drink, was an emblematic beverage of its time, born out of a push by Minute Maid to tap into the flourishing trend of flavored tea drinks like Snapple. With its vibrant, psychedelic packaging and a kaleidoscope of fruity flavors, Fruitopia offered a refreshing departure from the mundane. It was a sensory explosion in a bottle, capturing the essence of the decade's fascination with bright colors and bold, natural flavors. Fruitopia's quirky and often philosophical slogans, like "Fruit loves you back" and "The juice with the juicy stuff inside," added to its charm, making it not just a drink but a lifestyle choice.
Ring Pops
Ring Pops were undoubtedly a quintessential '90s snack that fueled the sugared-up adventures of kids across the decade. These colorful, jewel-shaped candies offered a delightful fusion of jewelry and sugary delight, appealing to the era's love for all things flashy and fun. Worn on fingers like bling, Ring Pops added a whimsical element to snacking, turning every treat into a playful accessory. Their fruity flavors and eye-catching designs, often with transparent gem-like tops, made them an instant hit. Ring Pops weren't just candies; they were a form of self-expression, a sweet and stylish way for kids to indulge their sugar cravings while feeling like candy royalty.
Oreo O's Cereal
This iconic cereal brilliantly translated the beloved Oreo cookie flavor into a breakfast delight. Each bite delivered a delightful combination of chocolatey, crunchy O's complemented by a sweet, creamy filling that mimicked the Oreo cookie's signature taste. The cereal's round shape and the rich chocolate taste made it a sensory delight, while its unmistakable Oreo branding added to its appeal. Oreo O's were a testament to the '90s fascination with indulgent and imaginative breakfast options, and they truly embraced the era's mantra of "more is more" when it came to sugar and flavor.
Go-Gurt
Go-Gurt was the '90s snack that tried to make yogurt cool, and it succeeded with flying colors. This innovative handheld yogurt came in squeezable tubes, turning the traditionally spoon-dependent snack into a portable, on-the-go delight. Go-Gurt's fun packaging and easy-to-eat design made it a hit with kids, who could slurp up their yogurt without the need for utensils. The yogurt itself came in an array of fruity flavors, adding an element of excitement to each tube. Go-Gurt commercials featured catchy jingles and a sense of adventure, further enhancing its appeal. It became the go-to yogurt for packed lunches and after-school snacks, capturing the '90s spirit of convenience and fun.
Lunchables
Lunchables held the coveted number one spot on every '90s lunchbox wishlist for a multitude of reasons. These neatly compartmentalized, ready-to-eat kits revolutionized school lunches, offering an enticing mix of convenience, choice, and, let's face it, kid-friendly indulgence. With options ranging from pizza to crackers, ham, and cheese, Lunchables allowed kids to feel like mini-chefs as they assembled their own meals. The colorful packaging and playful branding tapped into the '90s spirit of individualism and personalization, giving kids a sense of control over their midday munchies. Plus, the fun extras like mini desserts and drink pouches added an element of excitement to lunchtime.
Kid Cuisine
Kid Cuisine was a genuine mind explosion in the world of TV dinners for children, thanks to its ingenious addition of cartoon shapes to the meal. This innovative concept not only made dinner more exciting but also transformed the dining experience into an edible adventure. With popular characters like Scooby-Doo and the Looney Tunes gang adorning the plates, Kid Cuisine meals offered a delightful combination of entertainment and sustenance. It wasn't just about the taste; it was about the magic of discovering familiar shapes amidst the peas and mashed potatoes. Kid Cuisine made dinnertime fun, turning picky eaters into enthusiastic young diners. Its clever marketing, complete with interactive games and collectible prizes, made it an instant hit.
Doritos 3D Crunch
Doritos 3D Crunch was the super '90s snack that took snacking to a whole new dimension, quite literally. These unique, puffed-up chips were shaped like miniature hollow triangles, promising a crunchy explosion with every bite. The idea of a "third dimension" in snack form was an irresistible proposition that tapped into the '90s fascination with all things cutting-edge and innovative. Doritos 3D Crunch wasn't just about flavor; it was about the experience, with each chip offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of bold Doritos flavor. Its memorable advertising campaigns, often featuring over the top and straight up insane scenarios only made these 3D bad boys all the more desirable.
Eggo Waffles
Eggo Waffles were undeniably a quintessential '90s breakfast snack that held a special place in the hearts and kitchens of families across the decade. These toaster-friendly waffles offered the perfect blend of convenience, deliciousness, and that satisfying crispiness that made them a morning favorite. The iconic "L'eggo my Eggo" catchphrase became a cultural touchstone, highlighting the fierce determination to protect one's precious waffles. Eggo's versatility allowed for creative topping experiments, from classic maple syrup to whipped cream and berries, making them a canvas for culinary imagination. Eggo Waffles embodied the '90s spirit of quick, easy, and delicious breakfasts, and they remain a beloved symbol of morning nostalgia, bringing back memories of the simple joy of digging into a stack of warm, golden waffles to start the day right.
Trix Yogurt
Trix Yogurt was a fun and innovative lunchtime snack in the '90s that offered a playful way to get young people to embrace the idea of probiotics and healthy eating. This colorful yogurt not only provided a tasty treat but also added an element of excitement to mealtime with its vibrant, fruit-flavored swirls. It was a clever twist on the classic Trix cereal, capitalizing on the appeal of its familiar rabbit mascot while introducing the benefits of yogurt consumption. Trix Yogurt transformed a nutritious snack into a delicious adventure for kids, encouraging them to eat their probiotics without even realizing it. It was the perfect blend of health and fun, capturing the essence of '90s snacking innovation while nourishing growing bodies.
Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Creme Bars
Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Bars were the candy bar sensation that rolled out in the '90s and quickly became a must-have for young people everywhere. These delectable white chocolate bars were studded with crunchy chocolate cookie bits, offering a delicious twist on the classic Hershey's chocolate. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures, along with a sweet but not overwhelming flavor, made these bars an instant hit. Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Bars encapsulated the '90s spirit of indulgence and innovation, providing a delightful escape from traditional chocolate bars. Their iconic checkered packaging became synonymous with a tasty treat that was impossible to resist, making them a cherished symbol of '90s snacking nostalgia.
Freeze Pops
Freezer Pops were the ultimate '90s snack, especially on a scorching summer's day. These colorful, icy treats came in a rainbow of flavors, and their slender, tube-like packaging made them a refreshingly portable way to beat the heat. Freezer Pops perfectly embodied the '90s desire for convenience and fun combined, offering an instant cool-down option that delighted kids and adults alike. The sheer delight of squeezing and slurping the frozen goodness was an experience that defined hot summer afternoons. Plus, their affordability and widespread availability made them a staple at summer gatherings and backyard barbecues. Freezer Pops remain a nostalgic symbol of '90s snack culture, evoking memories of chasing after the ice cream truck or eagerly reaching into the freezer for a burst of icy refreshment during the sweltering summer months.
Fun Dip
Fun Dip was the ultimate '90s snack that kids couldn't resist gobbling up, setting the stage for a major sugar crash. This interactive treat consisted of flavored sugar powder and an edible candy stick for dipping, offering a dual sensory experience that was as delightful as it was decadent. The process of licking the stick and dipping it into the flavored powder was part of the fun, and the range of tangy, fruity flavors only added to the excitement. Fun Dip was the epitome of '90s snacking indulgence, embodying the era's love for interactive and over-the-top treats. Whether traded with friends at school or savored secretly on the playground, Fun Dip was an irresistible sugar rush.
