Retro Candy Reviews: Revisiting the Sweetest Treats from the ’80s and ’90s
Nostalgia is a powerful force, and nothing takes us back to childhood quite like the candies we grew up with. From fizzy treats to chewy classics, the ’80s and ’90s were a golden era for creative and unforgettable confections. In this article, we’re taking a sugary stroll down memory lane to revisit some of the sweetest treats from those decades. Do they still hold up today, or are they better left in the past?
The Classics We Loved
1. Pop Rocks
- The Experience: Tiny crystals that fizz, crackle, and pop in your mouth—Pop Rocks were a sensory explosion that felt almost magical. Available in fruity flavors like cherry and grape, they turned every candy break into a mini science experiment.
- Does It Hold Up?: Absolutely. Pop Rocks are still a delightful novelty and a hit with kids and adults alike.
2. Ring Pops
- The Experience: These wearable lollipops made you feel like royalty as you showed off your candy bling. The fruity flavors were bold, and the convenience of wearing your treat was unbeatable.
- Does It Hold Up?: Yes, though the idea of wearing sticky candy on your finger might not be as appealing as it once was.
3. Nerds
- The Experience: These tiny, tangy candies came in colorful boxes with dual compartments, offering two flavors in one. Whether you poured them directly into your mouth or savored them one by one, Nerds were endlessly fun.
- Does It Hold Up?: Definitely. Nerds remain a staple in the candy aisle and still deliver their signature sweet-and-sour punch.
4. Bubble Tape
- The Experience: Six feet of bubblegum in a roll? It was the ultimate playground flex. Bubble Tape offered a soft, chewy texture and came in fun flavors like grape and watermelon.
- Does It Hold Up?: The novelty is still there, but the flavor fades quickly compared to today’s premium gums.
5. Airheads
- The Experience: These stretchy, tangy bars of taffy-like candy were a lunchbox favorite. Flavors like Blue Raspberry and White Mystery kept things exciting.
- Does It Hold Up?: Yes! Airheads are just as chewy and flavorful as you remember.
The Weird and Wonderful
1. Candy Cigarettes
- The Experience: These chalky sticks of sugar were modeled after cigarettes, complete with a red tip to mimic a lit end. While they were controversial, kids loved pretending to be grown-ups.
- Does It Hold Up?: Not really. Candy cigarettes are now a relic of the past, and their taste doesn’t quite match up to today’s standards.
2. Fruit Stripe Gum
- The Experience: Known for its zebra mascot and colorful stripes, Fruit Stripe Gum was a visual treat. Each pack came with temporary tattoos, adding to its appeal.
- Does It Hold Up?: Sadly, no. The flavor disappears almost instantly, leaving you chewing bland gum.
3. Push Pops
- The Experience: Push Pops were lollipops with a retractable design, allowing you to save your treat for later. Flavors like strawberry and cola made them a hit.
- Does It Hold Up?: Yes! Push Pops are still fun and convenient, making them a timeless candy.
4. Warheads
- The Experience: These ultra-sour candies were a test of bravery. Could you survive the intense sourness before reaching the sweet center?
- Does It Hold Up?: Absolutely. Warheads are still a favorite among sour candy enthusiasts.
5. Hubba Bubba Bubble Jug
- The Experience: Powdered bubblegum that transformed into chewy gum when you chewed it? It was a fascinating concept that made Hubba Bubba Bubble Jug a standout.
- Does It Hold Up?: Not quite. The novelty wears off quickly, and the gum itself doesn’t have much staying power.
Honorable Mentions
- Big League Chew: A shredded gum that made you feel like a pro baseball player. It’s still a fan favorite for its fun format and long-lasting flavor.
- Pixy Stix: Basically flavored sugar in a straw, Pixy Stix were simple but effective.
- Fun Dip: Who could forget dipping a candy stick into flavored powder? Fun Dip was interactive and delicious.
Conclusion
The candies of the ’80s and ’90s were as much about the experience as the flavor. While some have stood the test of time, others are best remembered fondly rather than revisited. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or introducing these retro treats to a new generation, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face and a taste of simpler times.