1. Pop Rocks
If you grew up in the ’70s, you probably remember the thrill of popping Pop Rocks. These tiny, candy crystals exploded in your mouth, creating a fizzy sensation that felt like a mini fireworks show. They were a favorite at Halloween and the go-to snack for kids looking to experience something unique. The combination of sweet and fizzy was like no other candy on the market, making it an unforgettable part of ’70s childhoods.
Sadly, this candy isn’t as easy to find today as it was back then. While Pop Rocks still make occasional comebacks, they’re no longer as widespread as they once were. If you do manage to find a pack, it’s often more of a novelty than a regular snack. It’s hard not to miss the nostalgia of this candy that seemed to defy the laws of physics back in the day.
2. Jell-O Pudding Pops
Before pudding cups became a mainstream treat, Jell-O Pudding Pops were the frozen dessert of choice. Creamy, rich, and just the right amount of sweetness, they were the ultimate summertime snack for kids. Whether you had them on a hot afternoon or after dinner as a sweet treat, these pops were iconic. Their smooth texture and cool, chocolatey flavor made them stand out from other frozen desserts.
Unfortunately, Jell-O discontinued Pudding Pops in the early ’90s, leaving many wondering where they had gone. Despite occasional rumors of a comeback, these pops remain elusive, and it’s a shame because they were a true ’70s classic. Today, if you’re lucky, you might find a homemade version of the beloved treat, but it’s just not the same.
3. Planters Cheez Balls
Planters Cheez Balls were the snack of choice for any kid’s party in the ’70s. The cheesy, salty flavor paired with their unique, crunchy texture made them an irresistible treat. These snacks were often found in their signature orange tin, which kids loved to shake up before diving in. They were always part of the family snack stash, perfect for munching while watching Saturday morning cartoons or hanging out with friends.
Sadly, Planters Cheez Balls disappeared from store shelves for years, much to the dismay of ’70s snack enthusiasts. While they briefly made a comeback, they aren’t as widely available as they once were. The distinctive orange tin and that one-of-a-kind cheesy taste seem to be a thing of the past. For many, these cheesy puffs are a taste of their childhood that they wish could return for good.
4. Hostess Snowballs
Hostess Snowballs were a major hit for kids in the ’70s, known for their fluffy coconut-covered exterior and marshmallow center. These sweet, fluffy treats were often wrapped in bright colors and made a perfect addition to any lunchbox. Whether you loved the chocolate or vanilla flavor, Snowballs were a favorite for their unique texture and fun look. Kids couldn’t resist the combination of marshmallow, cream filling, and coconut all in one bite.
Although Snowballs are still available in some regions, they aren’t as popular as they used to be. Over the years, they’ve faded into snack history, replaced by other dessert options. It’s a shame because these colorful treats had a way of standing out and making a fun statement. The nostalgia for these little confections remains strong for those who grew up eating them.
5. Tang
While it’s often associated with astronauts, Tang was a staple for many kids in the ’70s who loved the sweet, orange-flavored drink mix. Kids loved mixing it with water and sipping on the tangy, citrusy beverage that felt like a special treat. Whether served at breakfast or as a quick refreshment, Tang was the go-to drink in every kid’s cupboard. Its powdery texture and bright orange color made it stand out from regular juices, and it was often seen as a bit of a luxury drink back in the day.
Today, Tang isn’t as commonly found in stores as it once was, though it has made occasional comebacks. Despite this, the drink hasn’t maintained the same level of prominence in the beverage aisle. For many, Tang was a true ’70s experience, and the memories of mixing that powder into water evoke a nostalgic sense of simpler times. If you’re craving it, you’ll have to hunt it down online or in specialty stores.
6. Hostess Fruit Pies
Hostess Fruit Pies were a beloved, handheld snack for ’70s kids. With their flaky crust and gooey, fruit-filled center, these pies were perfect for a quick dessert or snack on the go. They came in a variety of flavors, with apple and cherry being the most popular, and were often enjoyed after school or on a road trip. The sweet filling and crispy exterior made them stand out among other packaged snacks.
Although Hostess still produces fruit pies today, they aren’t quite the same as the ones from the ’70s. The pie’s crust used to be much flakier, and the filling had a more homemade taste. For those who remember the originals, it’s hard not to feel a little disappointed when comparing the modern versions to the ones they grew up with.
