10 Discontinued Foods That Will Take You Back in Time

The allure of discontinued foods remains strong, as these items transport us back to simpler times and evoke powerful memories. Over the years, brands have made heartbreaking decisions to retire certain snacks, beverages, and treats, leaving fans longing for one last bite. Although some companies release nostalgic variations, nothing compares to the originals. Here, we revisit a few beloved food and drink items that were discontinued but are far from forgotten.

10 Discontinued Foods That Left Us Wanting More

1. The Klondike Choco Taco 

One of the most iconic discontinued foods, the Klondike Choco Taco, was a beloved blend of taco and dessert. Launched in the 1980s, this treat featured vanilla ice cream and fudge inside a taco-shaped waffle cone, dipped in chocolate and topped with nuts. Discontinued in 2022, the Choco Taco had a loyal following that still mourns its loss. Companies like Cold Stone have since released ice cream tacos, but fans yearn for the original.

@yegmom.eats | Instagram | The Klondike Choco Taco was a beloved blend of taco and dessert.

2. Taco Bell Caramel Apple Empanada

Taco Bell’s Caramel Apple Empanada was a crispy, caramel-filled dessert that left a lasting impression on fans. This empanada featured a gooey caramel apple filling wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Taco Bell removed it from the menu in 2019, sparking disappointment among its devoted followers. While Taco Bell still offers other desserts like Cinnamon Twists, the Caramel Apple Empanada remains irreplaceable.

3. Fruitopia 

For anyone who remembers the vibrant colors and fruity flavors of the ’90s, Fruitopia juice was an unforgettable favorite. Fruitopia was a staple in vending machines and cafeterias, and it had flavors like Strawberry Passion Awareness and Citrus Consciousness. Unfortunately, Coca-Cola phased it out in the early 2000s in the U.S. However, some flavors are still available in Canada, keeping the nostalgia alive for those who can access it.

4. McDonald’s Snack Wrap

Among McDonald’s discontinued foods, the Snack Wrap holds a special place in the hearts of many. This light meal combines a flour tortilla, crispy or grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a savory sauce. Discontinued in 2016, fans continue to rally for its return, often tagging McDonald’s in social media campaigns. Rumors of a potential comeback occasionally surface, but the Snack Wrap remains a cherished memory for now.

5. Doritos 3D

Doritos 3D chips offered a unique twist on the classic Doritos flavor. These hollow, puffed-up triangles, available in flavors like Jalapeño Cheddar, were an instant hit in the 1990s. Though they were discontinued in the early 2000s, Doritos launched a version called Doritos 3D Crunch in 2020. Despite this revival, fans still miss the original version, with its lighter texture and retro packaging.

@ch_yummy | Instagram | Doritos launched a version called Doritos 3D Crunch in 2020.

6. Jell-O Pudding Pops

Jell-O Pudding Pops brought a creamy, pudding-based twist to the classic popsicle. These treats were a hit with kids in the ’80s and ’90s, available in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and chocolate-vanilla swirl. Despite their popularity, they vanished from store shelves around 2010. While similar products have emerged, the nostalgia of original Jell-O Pudding Pops remains unmatched for fans who grew up enjoying this iconic treat.

7. Tab Soda

Originally launched in 1963, Coca-Cola’s Tab was one of the first diet sodas to hit the market. Known for its distinctive flavor, Tab developed a cult following over the years. However, in 2020, Coca-Cola announced that it would discontinue Tab, disappointing its loyal fans. Although other diet sodas remain available, Tab enthusiasts continue campaigning for its return, longing for that signature taste.

8. Butterfinger BB’s 

Butterfinger BB’s were a small but powerful snack, offering the flavor of a Butterfinger candy bar in bite-sized balls. These candies, perfect for on-the-go snacking, were discontinued in 2006. Despite this, fans often reminisce about the ease and flavor of Butterfinger BB’s, which remain a memorable treat from the past. Calls for a revival have persisted, but the candy remains a fond memory.

9. Sierra Mist 

Introduced by PepsiCo in 1999, Sierra Mist was a refreshing lemon-lime soda known for its use of cane sugar. Despite a loyal customer base, PepsiCo discontinued Sierra Mist in 2023 and replaced it with a new soda called Starry. While similar, Starry’s use of high-fructose corn syrup left fans missing the clean taste of Sierra Mist, a soda many had come to enjoy over two decades.

10. Cinnamon Tic Tacs 

Cinnamon Tic Tacs brought a unique heat to the breath mint category. Discontinued in the U.S. several years ago, these spicy mints had a small but dedicated fanbase. Although Tic Tac regularly introduces new flavors, none have replicated Cinnamon Tic Tacs’ appeal. Fans have petitioned for its return, hoping to once again experience the sweet-and-spicy flavor that set it apart.