13 Forgotten ’70s Snacks That Were Pure Fun

The 1970s were a vibrant era of disco, bell-bottoms, and unforgettable treats that packed a punch of fun and flavor. Unlike today’s snack shelves, which focus on health-conscious choices, the ‘70s was a golden age of creative, colorful, and sometimes quirky snacks.

This list revisits 13 beloved snacks from that time—treats that were more than just food, but an experience. From wild packaging to flavors that pushed the boundaries of taste, these snacks defined an era of playful indulgence.

1. Space Food Sticks

A snack inspired by space exploration, Space Food Sticks were originally created for astronauts before becoming a must-have for kids fascinated by the final frontier. These chewy, nutrient-packed bars—available in flavors like chocolate and peanut butter—were marketed as the future of snacking.

Their appeal wasn’t just in the taste but in the thrill of eating something “designed for space.” They may not have been the most gourmet treat, but for kids dreaming of moon landings, they were the next best thing to a NASA mission.

2. Funny Face Drink Mix

Bright, bold, and full of personality, Funny Face Drink Mix turned an ordinary glass of water into a sugary explosion of flavor. With characters like Goofy Grape and Jolly Olly Orange gracing the packages, this drink mix was as much about the fun as it was about the taste.

It wasn’t the healthiest option, but in a decade that was all about enjoyment, that didn’t matter. Kids loved the whimsical branding and the instant transformation of water into something deliciously vibrant.

3. Doo Dads Snack Mix

Before party mix became a mainstream snack, there was Doo Dads. This crunchy medley of cheese tidbits, pretzels, and nuts was a must-have at gatherings and snack times alike.

Packaged in bright, bold colors, Doo Dads embodied the carefree fun of the ‘70s. It was the perfect snack for sharing and always seemed to disappear faster than expected. Whether at a party or straight from the box, it was a mix that kept snack lovers coming back for more.

4. Whistle Pops

These were not just lollipops—they were candy instruments! Whistle Pops combined sugary sweetness with the joy of making music, delighting kids who enjoyed the dual-purpose fun of whistling and snacking at the same time.

Whether driving parents crazy or entertaining friends, Whistle Pops were a childhood staple. Their unique design made them a standout treat, and the fun lasted as long as the candy did.

5. Kaboom Cereal

Breakfast in the ‘70s wasn’t complete without Kaboom, a cereal that brought a splash of circus-like excitement to the table. Featuring a clown mascot and brightly colored star-shaped pieces, this sugary treat turned mornings into a playful event.

Though it wasn’t exactly a health-conscious choice, kids adored the lively presentation and sweet flavor. Kaboom was more than a meal—it was an experience that made waking up a little more fun.

6. Fruit Brute Cereal

One of the lesser-known members of the monster cereal lineup, Fruit Brute had a cult following among kids who loved its werewolf mascot and fruity marshmallow-packed flavor. It was a breakfast treat that felt both fun and a little mischievous.

While Fruit Brute was discontinued in the early ‘80s, it left behind a lasting legacy as one of the more memorable cereals of its time. Collectors and cereal lovers still reminisce about its playful packaging and unique taste.

7. Marathon Bar

The Marathon Bar was all about stretching out the snacking experience—literally! This extra-long, braided caramel candy coated in chocolate was a chewy delight that lasted longer than most treats.

Its vibrant red packaging and novelty size made it stand out in the candy aisle. Snacking on a Marathon Bar wasn’t just about eating—it was a challenge to see how long you could make it last.

8. Screaming Yellow Zonkers

This was popcorn with a personality! Screaming Yellow Zonkers came in striking black packaging with witty, humorous text, making it just as fun to read as it was to eat.

The popcorn itself was coated in a sweet glaze that made it irresistible. It wasn’t just about the taste—it was about the experience of opening a box that felt more like a comic strip than a snack container.

9. Koogle Spread

Koogle took peanut butter and gave it a flavorful twist with variations like chocolate, banana, and cinnamon. It was a funky, fun spread that made sandwiches and snacks extra exciting.

With its playful branding and unique flavors, Koogle was a kitchen staple for adventurous eaters. It may have disappeared from store shelves, but its memory still lingers in the minds of those who grew up with its quirky charm.

10. Pink Panther Flakes

Pink Panther Flakes brought a touch of Hollywood to the breakfast table. These pink-hued cornflakes—starring the iconic Pink Panther—made mornings feel like a VIP event.

It was a cereal that blended pop culture with flavor, and kids loved the novelty of eating something pink. While it didn’t last long on store shelves, its flashy appeal left a lasting impression on ‘70s breakfast culture.

11. Magic Middles

Magic Middles cookies hid a delightful secret—a creamy center of chocolate or peanut butter that surprised snackers with every bite.

This unique treat was the ultimate in snack-time excitement, bringing an element of fun to the classic cookie. Though they eventually vanished from stores, their creamy-filled nostalgia remains strong among ‘70s snack fans.

12. Pizza Spins

A crunchy, pizza-flavored snack that was a game-changer for kids who loved all things cheesy and savory, Pizza Spins were like having a mini pizza in every bite.

They were packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, making them a favorite at lunchboxes and snack breaks. Though discontinued, they remain a beloved relic of ‘70s snack innovation.

13. Wacky Packages Stickers

Not technically a snack, but no discussion of ‘70s snack time is complete without Wacky Packages Stickers. These hilarious sticker parodies of household brands were a hit with kids, often collected and traded alongside their favorite treats.

They turned everyday products into comical caricatures, adding humor to snack breaks. Wacky Packages captured the playful, offbeat spirit of the ‘70s, proving that fun didn’t just come in edible form.