The 90s were a time of cool fashion, iconic music, and classic TV shows that are still being rebooted today. But let’s not forget the real reason why the 90s were the best decade: the snacks.
Filled with sugar, chemicals, and other questionable ingredients, these snacks were probably not the healthiest choice, but they were undeniably delicious.
From Lunchables to Trix yogurt, Pepsi Blue to Ring Pops, the 90s had it all. These snacks were the stuff of childhood dreams, and many of them are still missed today.
While the snacks of today may be made with “real” ingredients, they just can’t compare to the cool mascots and hip-hop jingles of the 90s snacks.
So let’s take a trip down memory lane and remember the snacks that made the 90s the best decade ever.
The Nostalgic Crunch: ’90s Snack Culture
The ’90s were a time of cool fashion, unbeatable music, and TV shows that are constantly being rebooted. But what really made the ’90s great? The snacks, of course! These snacks were filled with sugar, chemicals, and all the other things that are probably still rotting us from the inside. Sadly, many of these snacks are no longer available for sale.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and remember some of the classic ’90s snacks that are now being replaced by kale chips and kombucha.
1. Lunchables: The DIY Delight
Ah, Lunchables. The quintessential DIY lunch for any 90s kid. Sure, having your parents make lunch for you was so 1987. But with Lunchables, you could assemble your own meal like a pro. And let’s be real, it’s probably the reason why you’re now obsessed with chopped salads as an adult.
These pre-packaged meals came with crackers, cheese, and deli meats, allowing you to create your own mini sandwiches. And who could forget the dessert that came with it? A small pack of Oreo cookies or a mini candy bar was the perfect way to end your lunchtime feast.
Sure, Lunchables may not have been the healthiest option, but they were certainly a fun and convenient treat. Plus, they made you feel like a master chef in the making. Who needs a Michelin-starred restaurant when you can create your own mini sandwiches with Lunchables?
Why it was bad:
Lunchables, with their processed meats, refined crackers, and sugary desserts, were high in sodium, preservatives like sodium nitrite, and additives. The cheese was highly processed, and the overall high sodium and preservative content made these meals unhealthy.
Today’s equivalent:
Modern equivalents include healthier lunch kits like Applegate Naturals Half Time, which offer organic meats, whole grain crackers, and natural cheese. These options are generally healthier, focusing on natural ingredients, lower sodium, and no artificial preservatives.
2. Kool-Aid Bursts: The Sugary Drink Explosion
Kool-Aid Bursts were the epitome of fun and flavor in the ’90s. These colorful drinks came in squeeze bottles and were a favorite at school lunches and playgrounds. The intense fruit flavors like grape and tropical punch made them stand out.
Kool-Aid Bursts were enjoyed by kids everywhere for their sweet, tangy taste and the satisfying sensation of ripping off the top and drinking straight from the bottle.
Why it was bad:
Kool-Aid Bursts were loaded with sugar and artificial colors, contributing to unhealthy dietary habits and potential hyperactivity in children.
Today’s equivalent:
Drinks like Honest Kids Juice offer similar fruity flavors but with less sugar and no artificial additives, providing a healthier option for kids.
3. Yoo-hoo: The Chocolate Drink Substitute
Yoo-hoo was a unique chocolate-flavored drink that wasn’t quite milk but still beloved by ’90s kids. Its sweet taste and convenience made it a popular choice, even if it didn’t taste like traditional chocolate milk. Yoo-hoo’s distinctively smooth and slightly watery texture set it apart from other chocolate drinks, making it a nostalgic favorite despite its unconventional consistency.
Why it was bad:
Yoo-hoo contained high fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients, lacking the nutritional benefits of real milk and contributing to unhealthy diets.
Today’s equivalent:
Drinks like Organic Valley Chocolate Milk offer a healthier alternative with real milk, natural sweeteners, and no artificial ingredients, providing both taste and nutrition.
4. Trix Yogurt: The Cereal Transformation
Remember Trix cereal? Well, Yoplait took that fruity goodness and put it in yogurt form. Trix yogurt was a rainbow-colored blend of flavors that was a hit among kids in the 90s. No one really knows why they loved it so much, but they did.
Perhaps it was the fact that they could have their favorite cereal in a different form or maybe it was the fun colors. Whatever the reason, Trix yogurt was a staple in many lunchboxes.
It’s a shame that Trix yogurt is no longer available for sale, but it will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in the 90s. The snacks of today may be made of “real” ingredients, but they just don’t have the same level of fun and nostalgia as the snacks of the past.
Why it was bad:
Trix Yogurt was packed with artificial colors, flavors, and high sugar content, making it more of a dessert than a healthy snack. The artificial additives have been linked to potential health issues, including hyperactivity in children.
Today’s equivalent:
Yogurts like Stonyfield Organic Kids Yogurt or Chobani Gimmies offer similar fun flavors but with natural ingredients, no artificial colors or flavors, and lower sugar content. These options are healthier, providing the benefits of natural yogurt without the harmful additives.
5. Cheez Balls: The Ultimate Cheesy Snack
Cheez Balls were a favorite for their crunchy texture and cheesy flavor. Packaged in a distinctive blue canister, they were a go-to snack for parties and lunchboxes alike.
The intense cheesy coating on each ball and the satisfying crunch made them irresistible, capturing the essence of cheesy snacking in the ’90s. The nostalgia for the unique container and the unmistakable cheesy dust left on fingers makes Cheez Balls a memorable snack.
Why it was bad:
Cheez Balls were high in artificial flavors, colors, and unhealthy fats, making them a less-than-ideal snack choice.
Today’s equivalent:
Snacks like Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies offer a similar cheesy flavor but with organic ingredients and no artificial additives, making them a healthier option.
6. Pepsi Blue: The Berry Blast from the Past
Do you remember the days when you could grab a cold, refreshing Pepsi Blue from the store? This blue-colored soda was a berry-flavored twist on the classic Pepsi taste, and it was a hit with 90s kids everywhere.
Pepsi Blue was only available for two years, but it made a lasting impression on those who tried it. The unique color and flavor made it stand out from other sodas on the market, and it quickly became a fan favorite.
While Pepsi Blue may have been filled with sugar and chemicals, it was a beloved treat that many are still nostalgic for today. It’s hard to resist the urge to sing along to Britney Spears’ catchy jingle for the drink, even after all these years.
Why it was bad:
Pepsi Blue contained artificial coloring agents like Blue 1 and was high in sugar, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. The artificial colors have been scrutinized for their potential adverse health effects.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier beverage options include flavored sparkling waters like LaCroix or Hint Water, which offer natural fruit flavors without added sugars or artificial colors. These drinks are much healthier, focusing on hydration without the negative health impacts of sugary sodas.
7. Ring Pops: The Edible Jewels
Ring Pops, the iconic candy that allowed you to wear your bling and eat it too! These colorful treats were the closest thing to a real diamond ring that most of us had growing up. The candy was made up of a hard candy gemstone mounted on a plastic ring. The gemstone was available in a variety of flavors, including cherry, grape, and watermelon.
Ring Pops were introduced in the late 1970s and quickly became a hit among kids. The candy was manufactured by Topps Company, Inc., a well-known producer of trading cards and candy. The company marketed Ring Pops as the perfect candy for kids who wanted to show off their style and have a sweet treat at the same time.
Ring Pops were not only popular among kids, but they also gained a following among adults. The candy was a favorite at weddings, where it was often used as a fun and playful alternative to traditional wedding rings. The candy was also a popular accessory at music festivals and other events.
Why it was bad:
Ring Pops were primarily composed of sugar, corn syrup, and artificial flavors, posing risks for dental health and potential behavioral issues in children due to artificial colors.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier candy options include products like YumEarth Organic Pops, which use natural flavors and colors, and significantly less sugar. These alternatives are better for dental health and do not contain the harmful artificial additives.
8. Dunkaroos: The Cookie to Frosting Enigma
Ah, Dunkaroos. The snack that perfectly encapsulates the 90s obsession with sugar and questionable food ingredients. But let’s be honest, who cared about that when you had a pouch full of cookies and frosting to dunk them in?
The Dunkaroos experience was all about finding the perfect cookie to frosting ratio. Was it a 1:1 ratio? Or maybe 2:1 in favor of the frosting? The possibilities were endless, and every kid had their own preferred method.
But despite its popularity, Dunkaroos disappeared from store shelves, leaving a gaping hole in the hearts of 90s kids everywhere. Sure, there are other snacks out there, but none quite capture the magic of those little kangaroo-shaped cookies and the sweet, creamy frosting that came with them.
So, will Dunkaroos ever make a comeback? Only time will tell. But until then, we’ll just have to settle for reminiscing about the good old days and trying to recreate that perfect cookie to frosting ratio with whatever snacks we can find.
Why it was bad:
Dunkaroos consisted of refined flour cookies and frosting made of sugar, hydrogenated oils, and artificial flavors. The presence of trans fats and high sugar content made them particularly unhealthy.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier snack options like Once Upon a Farm’s fruit and vegetable snack packs or Justin’s Nut Butter and Pretzel Snack Packs offer natural ingredients, no trans fats, and lower sugar content. These are much healthier, focusing on whole foods and minimal processing.
9. Squeeze It: The Juice Box Revolution
Remember the good old days when juice boxes were all the rage? Squeeze It was the king of the juice box revolution, with its cool pouches that doubled as water guns.
If you ever needed to convince your parents to buy them for you, just tell them they were made of 100% fruit juice and you were completing your daily food pyramid by having one of these bad boys.
But let’s be real, Squeeze It wasn’t just about the juice. It was about the experience. The satisfaction of squeezing that little pouch until every last drop was gone. And the best part? You got to use it as a water gun afterwards. It was like two snacks in one.
Sure, today’s kids may have fancy juice bars and organic smoothies, but do they have a cool mascot and hip-hop jingle? We think not. Squeeze It may have been filled with sugar and chemicals, but it was worth it for the memories.
Why it was bad:
Squeeze It juice pouches were filled with high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors, contributing to obesity, insulin resistance, and potential hyperactivity in children.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier juice options include Honest Kids Organic Juice Drinks and Simply Balanced Organic Fruit Punch, which contain lower sugar, no high fructose corn syrup, and use natural fruit juices and colors. These are healthier, providing vitamins without the harmful additives.
10. 3D Doritos: The Snack Dimension Expansion
Back in the 90s, snacks were all the rage. From Lunchables to Dunkaroos, there was no shortage of sugar-filled treats to choose from. But one snack in particular stood out from the rest: 3D Doritos.
These triangular chips were not your average Doritos. They were puffy, crunchy, and came in a variety of flavors. And let’s not forget about the cool container they came in for storage. Sorry Gen Z, your 2D Doritos just can’t compare.
But what made 3D Doritos so special?
Perhaps it was the fact that they were in 3D, adding a whole new dimension to snacking. Or maybe it was the bold flavors like Jalapeño Cheddar and Zesty Ranch that kept people coming back for more.
Whatever the reason, 3D Doritos were a beloved snack of the 90s. And while they may not be available for sale anymore, they will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up snacking on them.
Why it was bad:
3D Doritos were made with refined corn flour, high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial flavors and colors. They provided excessive calories without essential nutrients.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier chip alternatives like Beanitos or Popchips offer whole grain or legume-based ingredients, lower sodium, and no artificial additives. These options are healthier, focusing on whole ingredients and better nutritional profiles.
11. Gushers: The Center of Surprise
Gushers were the ultimate snack of the 90s, with their fruity, gooey centers that would surprise you with every bite. These little bursts of flavor were a staple in every elementary school cafeteria, and for good reason.
They were the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, and their unique texture made them stand out from all the other snacks out there.
But what made Gushers truly special was the element of surprise. You never knew what flavor you were going to get until you bit into one, and that made them all the more exciting.
It was like a little game of chance every time you reached for a pack of Gushers.
And let’s not forget about the commercials. Gushers had some of the most memorable ads of the 90s, with their catchy jingles and cool mascots.
They were the epitome of cool, and every kid wanted to be seen with a pack of Gushers in their lunchbox.
Why it was bad:
Gushers were high in sugar and contained artificial flavors and colors, posing risks for obesity, dental problems, and potential behavioral issues in children.
Today’s equivalent:
Healthier fruit snack options include Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks or Mott’s Medleys, which use natural fruit juices, no artificial colors or flavors, and lower sugar content. These alternatives are healthier, providing natural ingredients and vitamins without the harmful additives.
12. Shark Bites: The Fruity Snack Adventure
Shark Bites were fruit snacks shaped like various shark species, making snack time fun and educational. Their vibrant colors and fruity flavors made them a hit among kids.
Each pack contained an assortment of shark shapes and flavors, sparking excitement and curiosity as kids compared their shark gummies and enjoyed the burst of fruity goodness.
The unique shapes and flavors made them a standout in the world of fruit snacks, often traded among friends for the most coveted pieces.
Why it was bad:
Shark Bites were packed with sugar and artificial colors, lacking any real nutritional value.
Today’s equivalent:
Brands like Mott’s offer fruit snacks made with real fruit juice, no artificial colors, and lower sugar content, providing a healthier alternative for kids.
13. Cosmic Brownies: The Sweetest Treat
Cosmic Brownies were known for their fudgy texture and colorful candy-coated sprinkles. They were a beloved lunchbox treat that brought a bit of joy to the school day.
Each brownie was rich and dense, topped with a layer of icing and vibrant sprinkles, creating a cosmic appearance that was as delightful to look at as it was to eat.
The individually wrapped brownies made them convenient for on-the-go snacking, and their decadent taste made them a favorite among kids.
Why it was bad:
Cosmic Brownies were high in sugar, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats, making them more of a dessert than a snack.
Today’s equivalent:
Brands like Enjoy Life offer similar tasty treats with healthier ingredients, free from artificial additives and lower in sugar.
14. Scooby Doo Fruit Snacks: The Mystery of Deliciousness
Scooby Doo Fruit Snacks were a favorite among ’90s kids, offering fun, character-shaped gummies in fruity flavors. Inspired by the beloved cartoon, these snacks were not only tasty but also added a bit of playful fun to snack time.
Each gummy was shaped like a character or item from the show, making every snack session a mini mystery-solving adventure. The bright colors and recognizable shapes made them a hit, encouraging kids to collect and trade their favorite characters.
Why it was bad:
These fruit snacks were high in sugar and artificial colors, offering little nutritional value.
Today’s equivalent:
Fruit snacks like Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks provide a healthier option with natural ingredients and no artificial colors.
15. Little Hugs Fruit Barrels: The Iconic Drink
Little Hugs Fruit Barrels were small, brightly colored barrels filled with sweet, fruity drinks. They were a hit at parties and gatherings, with their fun packaging and bold flavors making them a childhood favorite.
The unique barrel-shaped bottles and variety of flavors, such as blue raspberry and fruit punch, made them a staple of childhood celebrations. The affordability and appeal of the mini barrels made them a frequent purchase for parents looking to delight their kids.
Why it was bad:
These drinks were high in sugar and artificial additives, contributing to unhealthy dietary habits.
Today’s equivalent:
Drinks like Honest Kids Juice offer similar fun packaging but with less sugar and no artificial additives, providing a healthier choice for children.
16. Pizzarias: The Pizza-Flavored Chips
Pizzarias were chips that brought the savory taste of pizza into a crunchy snack form. Made by Keebler, they were a unique and flavorful option for snack time. These chips were packed with bold pizza flavors like cheese, tomato, and spices, creating a snack that was both convenient and reminiscent of everyone’s favorite Italian dish.
The novelty of a chip that tasted like pizza made them a standout snack, perfect for satisfying pizza cravings on the go.
Why it was bad:
Pizzarias were high in sodium, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats, making them a less-than-ideal snack choice.
Today’s equivalent:
Snacks like Simply Organic Doritos offer a similar taste experience with organic ingredients and no artificial additives, providing a healthier option.
17. Spaghetti-O’s: The Comfort Food
Spaghetti-O’s were canned pasta rings in a tomato sauce, easy to prepare and comforting to eat. They were a convenient meal for busy families and a nostalgic favorite.
The fun, circular pasta shapes and tangy tomato sauce made Spaghetti-O’s a go-to meal for kids and parents alike, offering a quick and tasty option for lunch or dinner. The ease of preparation and the familiar taste made them a staple in many households.
Why it was bad:
Spaghetti-O’s were high in sodium and contained artificial ingredients, lacking nutritional balance.
Today’s equivalent:
Organic versions of canned pasta, like those from Annie’s, offer a healthier option with organic ingredients and lower sodium content.
18. Sunny Delight: The Citrus Drink
Sunny Delight, or Sunny D, was a bright, citrus-flavored drink that brought a burst of sunshine to any meal. Its sweet, tangy taste made it a favorite among kids. The vibrant orange color and refreshing citrus flavor made it a popular choice for breakfast and snacks, capturing the essence of a sunny day in every bottle.
The marketing of Sunny D as a healthier alternative to soda contributed to its widespread popularity, despite its high sugar content.
Why it was bad:
Sunny Delight was high in sugar and artificial additives, contributing to unhealthy dietary habits.
Today’s equivalent:
Juices like Uncle Matt’s Organic Orange Juice offer a healthier alternative with natural ingredients and no added sugars, providing the benefits of real fruit juice.
19. Crystal Pepsi: The Clear Cola
Crystal Pepsi was a clear, caffeine-free cola that captured the imagination of ’90s kids with its unique appearance. Despite its short-lived popularity, it remains a nostalgic favorite.
The clear soda offered a familiar cola taste without the traditional dark color, making it a novelty and a must-try beverage of the decade. The clear color added an element of curiosity and excitement, making it a memorable part of ’90s pop culture.
Why it was bad:
Crystal Pepsi contained high levels of sugar and artificial ingredients, contributing to unhealthy dietary habits.
Today’s equivalent:
Drinks like Zevia Cola offer a healthier alternative with natural sweeteners and no artificial colors, providing a similar soda experience without the drawbacks.
20. Band-Aid Gum: The Quirky Chewing Experience
Band-Aid Gum was a novelty treat that came in the shape of adhesive bandages. This quirky gum offered a fun and playful twist on ordinary chewing gum. Its sweet
flavor and unique packaging made it a memorable snack. The novelty of chewing gum shaped like a common household item added an element of surprise and amusement to each piece, making it a favorite among kids looking for a fun, unusual treat.
Why it was bad:
Packed with sugar and artificial flavors, Band-Aid Gum offered little nutritional value and was more about the novelty than health.
Today’s equivalent:
Glee Gum provides a healthier option with natural ingredients and no artificial additives, offering fun flavors without compromising health.
21. Squeeze Pops: The Gooey Candy Delight
Squeeze Pops were a popular candy featuring a tube of sugary goo that you could squeeze directly into your mouth. Available in various flavors, these messy but fun treats were a favorite among kids. The novelty of squeezing candy from a tube made them a unique and enjoyable treat, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in a fun, interactive way.
Why it was bad:
High in sugar and artificial colors, Squeeze Pops were far from a healthy choice, contributing to poor dietary habits.
Today’s equivalent:
GoGo squeeZ offers a healthier alternative with fruit puree pouches, providing a natural, fun snack without the added sugar and artificial ingredients.
22. Bubble Tape: Six Feet of Bubble Fun
Bubble Tape offered six feet of bubble gum, packaged in a convenient plastic container. This unique gum was perfect for sharing with friends and offered long-lasting fun.
The novelty of unrolling and measuring out your gum made Bubble Tape an exciting and memorable part of childhood, often leading to friendly competitions over who could blow the biggest bubbles.
Why it was bad:
Bubble Tape was packed with sugar and artificial flavors, contributing to poor dental health and overall diet.
Today’s equivalent:
Glee Gum Chewing Gum Rolls provide a similar fun experience with natural ingredients and no artificial additives, making them a healthier choice.
23. Push Pops: The Portable Candy Treat
Push Pops were portable lollipops that came in a tube, allowing you to push up more candy as you ate. This fun and interactive treat was a favorite for its convenience and playful design. The ability to save some candy for later and the mess-free design made Push Pops a hit among kids and parents alike.
Why it was bad:
High in sugar and artificial colors, Push Pops were a sugary treat with little nutritional value.
Today’s equivalent:
YumEarth Organic Lollipops offer a healthier alternative with natural ingredients and no artificial colors, providing a similar fun experience without the health drawbacks.
The Snack Verdict: ’90s vs. Today
Today’s snacks may be made with “real” ingredients, but they just don’t have the cool mascots and hip-hop jingles that the ’90s snacks had. The verdict is in, the ’90s snacks reign supreme.
