1. Spam
A wartime staple and beloved comfort food for many, Spam was a quick, shelf-stable protein that made its way into breakfasts, lunches, and dinners alike. Today, while it still has some fans, most folks steer clear of its salty, mysterious flavor—unless it’s in a Hawaiian dish or we’re feeling particularly nostalgic.
In the past, American kitchens and diners were filled with foods that may have seemed delicious then but, today? Not so much. Whether it’s because of unusual textures, questionable ingredients, or just plain odd pairings, some of these foods are just hard to imagine anyone craving now. Let’s take a tasty (or not-so-tasty) trip down memory lane to some of the dishes we once loved—but probably wouldn’t put on the dinner table today.
2. Deviled Ham Spread
Deviled ham, a processed ham spread that came in a little can, was once all the rage on sandwiches and party trays. Today, though, many people find its look and consistency a little too… mysterious. Plus, with fresher options, we’re just not reaching for those canned spreads anymore.
3. Liver and Onions
This classic diner dish had its heyday, but today, liver and onions aren’t exactly top of mind when we’re deciding what to cook. The taste is too strong for most, and liver’s tough texture just doesn’t hold up against the more familiar cuts of meat we’re used to today.
4. Jell-O Salads
Back in the day, Jell-O salads were considered a highlight of any dinner party. Veggies, fruits, and even seafood encased in gelatin were somehow appealing. But these days? Most people shudder at the thought of green peas, olives, or mayonnaise floating in lime Jell-O.
5. Aspic
Aspic was a classic gelatin-based dish that was usually packed with vegetables, meats, or eggs. This wobbly, translucent delight was once a show-stopper for its presentation. These days, however, most of us would agree that meat and gelatin shouldn’t meet on our plates.
6. Fruit Cocktail with Heavy Syrup
Back in the day, a can of fruit cocktail in heavy syrup was a sweet treat at any gathering. But now? The amount of sugar in that syrup makes most people wince. Plus, today’s fresher fruits make the texture of canned options seem a little mushy by comparison.
7. Vienna Sausages
Vienna sausages were a cheap, compact protein that some people loved to eat straight out of the can. But today, we’re more likely to avoid these soft, salty little links that never really resemble “real” sausages. Their vaguely mushy texture is definitely an acquired taste!
8. TV Dinners
Back in the ‘50s and ‘60s, TV dinners were revolutionary, bringing home-cooked meals to your freezer. While the novelty was thrilling, the actual taste often wasn’t. Today, with healthier frozen options available, those early TV dinners—mystery meat, gray mashed potatoes, and all—just don’t hold up.
9. Canned Pasta (Like SpaghettiOs)
SpaghettiOs were a lifesaver for kids and busy moms, and that familiar tomato sauce brings back memories of after-school meals. But with their overly sweet flavor and soft, canned texture, canned pasta just doesn’t hold the same charm for most grown-up taste buds today.
10. Tang
This astronaut-endorsed orange drink was a favorite, and its brightly colored powder was a fixture in many kitchens. But with its artificial flavor and high sugar content, Tang is a far cry from what we think of as orange juice today. The taste just isn’t quite as refreshing anymore.
11. Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia salad, a mixture of canned fruit, marshmallows, and whipped cream, used to be a party staple. Today, however, the combination of heavy sweetness, artificial ingredients, and odd texture makes ambrosia one of those retro dishes people don’t often seek out.
12. Canned Ham
Canned ham was a go-to for Sunday dinners, served in slices or covered in a sugary glaze. Now, the idea of ham coming from a can just doesn’t have the same appeal. With fresher options available, the overly salty taste and unique shape of canned ham don’t make the cut.
13. Cheese in a Can (Spray Cheese)
Cheese in a can was once a convenient way to add “cheese” to crackers, sandwiches, and anything else. While it’s still around today, it’s safe to say most of us have moved on to real cheese. The ultra-processed taste and texture just don’t compare to the real deal.
14. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This was a classic that every home cook had in their arsenal. While we still appreciate a good cake, the combination of canned pineapple and maraschino cherries has lost its appeal in favor of fresher, less sugary desserts. Still, it’s a sweet trip down memory lane.
15. Eggnog in a Carton
Carton eggnog was a holiday tradition for many, but the ultra-thick, overly sweet taste of store-bought eggnog doesn’t hold the same charm anymore. Now, we’re more likely to make eggnog fresh—or skip it altogether.
Even if these foods have faded from popularity, they remind us of an era when dinner parties were fancy, gelatin ruled supreme, and convenience was king! A few of these might still make an appearance now and then, but most have stayed firmly in the past, and that’s probably for the best.
