Snacking has evolved, but some treats are timeless. Imagine biting into a candy bar today and knowing your great-grandparents probably enjoyed the same snack over 100 years ago. It’s like taking a trip back in time with every bite! There’s something special about munching on a snack that’s lasted generations, proof that some things never get old.
These snacks have a kind of magic, transcending trends and fads, and staying relevant despite the ever-growing snack aisle. They remind us that sometimes, the simplest things are the best. Here are 13 of the most iconic snacks that have been keeping people happy for over a century.
1. Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar (1900)
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There’s nothing quite as classic as a Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar. First hitting the shelves in 1900, they’ve been a fan favorite ever since. Whether you eat it plain, use it in s’mores, or break it into your favorite dessert, Hershey’s chocolate is like an old friend who never disappoints.
Milton Hershey developed this iconic bar to bring affordable chocolate to the masses, not just the elite. Over 100 years later, it’s safe to say he nailed it. Hershey’s chocolate remains one of the most beloved and accessible treats in America.
2. Cracker Jack (1896)
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Who doesn’t love a box of Cracker Jack? This caramel-coated popcorn and peanut combo has been around since 1896 and became famous for being the perfect snack at baseball games. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a nostalgic piece of Americana.
Part of the charm is the surprise inside each box, a tradition that’s kept kids (and adults) coming back for more. It’s a snack that’s managed to stay relevant by keeping its fun spirit alive, even after all these years.
3. Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit Gum (1893)
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Sweet, fruity, and bursting with flavor, Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit Gum has been around since 1893. It’s a classic you probably grabbed from the corner store when you were a kid, and chances are, it still tastes exactly like you remember.
The gum was originally introduced as a bonus when buying baking powder, but it quickly stole the show. Today, it’s still a go-to for a quick breath refresher with that unmistakable taste.
4. Fig Newtons (1891)
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Fig Newtons might have been the “healthier” cookie choice when they debuted in 1891, but their delicious, chewy filling has kept them on grocery shelves for over a century. Named after the town of Newton, Massachusetts, these cookies have a charm that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
They’ve gone through a bit of a transformation over the years with new flavors, but the original fig remains the beloved centerpiece.
5. Planters Peanuts (1906)
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Planters Peanuts has been a go-to snack since 1906, and Mr. Peanut, with his monocle and top hat, is still as dapper as ever. The company started small, but its salted peanuts have since become a snack sensation.
Whether it’s a handful at a party or packed for a hike, Planters peanuts are both simple and satisfying, which might be why they’ve maintained their popularity for so long.
6. MoonPie (1917)
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The MoonPie, first baked up in 1917, is the epitome of a good old-fashioned snack. Marshmallow sandwiched between graham crackers and dipped in chocolate what’s not to love?
Created as a hearty nibble for coal miners, MoonPies quickly found their way into the hearts (and lunchboxes) of people everywhere, especially in the South.
7. Life Savers (1912)
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Life Savers have been around since 1912, created to be a “summer candy” that wouldn’t melt in the heat. These ring-shaped mints have become a classic, offering a quick, refreshing burst of flavor when you’re on a road trip or just need something to freshen your breath.
The variety of flavors has kept Life Savers relevant over the years, but the original Pep-O-Mint remains the fan favorite.
8. Oreos (1912)
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You can’t talk about snacks without mentioning Oreos. Launched in 1912, this iconic cookie has stood the test of time. Whether you’re dunking them in milk, twisting them apart, or crushing them up for dessert recipes, Oreos are a cookie that everyone recognizes.
And while new flavors and varieties have popped up, the classic white cream-filled chocolate cookie remains king.
9. Necco Wafers (1847)
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Believe it or not, Necco Wafers have been around since 1847! These pastel-colored discs have a chalky texture that some love, and others… well, not so much. But even if they’re divisive, they’re undeniably historic.
Necco Wafers have survived over 170 years and are still sold today, proving that sometimes, old-fashioned candy never really goes out of style.
10. Tunnock’s Tea Cakes (1890)
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A favorite in Scotland, Tunnock’s Tea Cakes have been around since 1890, and they’re still a popular treat for afternoon tea. With a biscuit base, marshmallow filling, and chocolate coating, these tea cakes have become a classic snack, enjoyed far beyond their Scottish origins.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, soft, and crunchy that has kept them around for so long.
11. Twinkies (1930)
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Although they’re just shy of the century mark, Twinkies have long been a notable player in the American snack landscape since 1930. Known for their golden sponge cake and creamy filling, Twinkies are iconic. They even survived a brief disappearance in 2012 when Hostess went bankrupt.
People love their nostalgic, slightly artificial sweetness, and they’ve rightfully earned a permanent place in the snack world.
12. Smith’s/Lay’s Crisps (1920)
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Smith’s Crisps, launched in 1920, were the first commercially sold flavored potato chips. They’ve been around so long that they practically invented the idea of a salty snack in a bag. From simple salt to more exotic flavors, Smith’s Crisps set the stage for the potato chip world we know today.
The name of the brand differs depending on the country they’re being sold in. In the United States, Smith’s is more commonly known as Lay’s (you know, that iconic yellow and red logo). If you’ve ever enjoyed a flavored potato chip, you’ve got Smith’s to thank.
13. Moxie (1876)
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Moxie soda isn’t your average cola. It’s been around since 1876, and its bold, slightly bitter flavor is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of experience. But those who love it, really love it, and it’s still on the market today.
It even predates Coca-Cola, making it one of America’s oldest soft drinks. It used to be sold across the United States, but in later years, the market has shifted to the East Coast.