master-cooks | Whatever Happened To Fruit Stripe Gum?

Fruit Stripe Gum, known for its colorful stripes and unique fruity flavors, was a popular candy in the 1960s and 1970s. Created by James Parker in the early 1960s, the gum quickly gained a fan base due to its vibrant appearance and intense, albeit short-lived, flavor. Each pack typically contained five flavors: lemon, lime, cherry, orange, and mixed fruit. The brand's mascot, Yipes the Zebra, became an iconic figure, often adorning the packaging and adding to its playful appeal. Over the years, the gum's popularity waned as the market became flooded with more durable and long-lasting chewing gum options. Despite this, Fruit Stripe Gum retained a nostalgic charm, with many people fondly recalling it from their childhoods. In recent years, the gum has experienced a modest resurgence, appealing to those seeking a nostalgic treat or introducing it to a new generation. Today, it is still available in select stores and online, maintaining its legacy as a nostalgic candy classic. While it may not hold the same market dominance it once did, Fruit Stripe Gum continues to evoke fond memories and remains a symbol of a bygone era in confectionery history.

Why was Fruit Stripe Gum discontinued?

Given that Fruit Stripe Gum enjoyed a long run and was quite popular among consumers, many have wondered why it was ultimately discontinued. Representatives from Ferrara, the parent company of Fruit Stripe Gum, explained that the decision was based on a mix of data reflecting various trends, including consumer behaviors and overall purchasing patterns.

One significant factor may have been that much of the nostalgia surrounding Fruit Stripe Gum stemmed from its vibrant appearance and memorable mascots over the years, rather than its flavor. Many fans fondly recall the gum's iconic, colorful stripes and the zebra mascot, Yipes. However, it's less common for people to express a love for the gum based on its lasting flavor or taste. In fact, even among its enthusiasts, the flavor is often described as notoriously short-lived.

Regardless of the reasons behind its discontinuation, Fruit Stripe Gum will be missed. Even Ferrara seemed regretful about the loss, with representatives stating that it was a difficult decision to make. Given the affection for the gum, there’s a possibility of a revival in the future—similar to the return of the once-discontinued Dunkaroos snack.

Whatever Happened To Fruit Stripe Gum?

Why was Fruit Stripe Gum discontinued?

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