If you want a crushing reminder of how fleeting and temporary life can be, jot down some of your favorite products from way back when, and you’ll likely realize you haven’t noticed a handful of them on store shelves in a long time. It’s not uncommon for our favorite products to be quietly discontinued and their memory slowly evaporated from our consciousness. Products lose their shelf space for a myriad of reasons ranging from minor defects to major recalls or because the manufacturer wants to focus on newer products. We’re here to reverse the spell and unlock long-lost memories of the internet’s favorite products that were cut from company lineups. A few of today’s entries rode the nostalgia wave back into our homes because the internet has learned that if it uses enough hashtags and tweets loud enough, their beloved discontinued treats might make a comeback, but are the revivals as good as the originals?
Nineties Nihilism in a Can
Coca-Cola’s OK Soda made a limited appearance in soda aisles between 1993 and 1995. It commanded our attention with its word salad manifestos and anti-advertising campaigns aimed at young people who were exhausted by the in-your-face commercials of the era. There was even a dedicated 1-800 number where fans could leave messages about OK Soda for other callers to listen to.
The product was a colossal failure, mainly due to its flavor profile mimicking swamp water or graveyard soda. Or maybe it was because artist Daniel Clowes incorporated Charles Manson’s likeness in the marketing designs. Despite the downfall, OK Soda has recaptured the internet’s interest, leading to calls for its return, philosophical discussions over the advertising, and exchanges of homemade recipes for those looking to replicate the taste.