South Africa’s snack aisle is looking a little lonelier these days. From breakfast staples to nostalgic sweets, some of our favourite items have quietly disappeared, leaving many of us clutching our shopping lists in dismay. Recently, Bokomo confirmed the discontinuation of Maltabella porridge and Bokomo Rusks, while other iconic treats have been MIA for years. But don’t despair just yet—sometimes, public outcry has been loud enough to bring these goodies back!
Here’s a list of disappearing snacks that are sure to stir your appetite, spark nostalgia, and maybe even inspire a bit of hope for a comeback.
1. Maltabella Porridge and Bokomo Rusks
Let’s start with the freshest heartbreak: Bokomo’s announcement last month that Maltabella and their rusks are no more. For over 50 years, Maltabella has been a breakfast staple, warming generations of South African hearts and stomachs. But alas, Bokomo confirmed its discontinuation via Facebook in response to a query from a concerned shopper, Daily Maverick reported.
The sadness is real—social media has been ablaze with nostalgic tributes, and many are calling for its return.
2. Hellmann’s Mayonnaise: Back by popular demand!
Not all is doom and gloom in snackland. In February 2023, Hellmann’s mayonnaise was delisted in South Africa due to low demand and sky-high import costs. But loyal mayo fans weren’t having it. Pick n Pay took up the challenge, sourcing the creamy condiment from overseas suppliers. And now it’s back on shelves in all its 800g and 400g glory.
If this comeback teaches us anything, it’s that South Africans won’t let go of their favourites without a fight.
3. Candy Cigarettes
Remember pretending to be James Bond with a candy cigarette between your fingers? These sugary sticks were the ultimate playground accessory, but they disappeared when public health concerns became a hot topic. While they’re not making a return anytime soon, they remain a sugary icon of childhood rebellion.
4. Chocolate Logs
A marshmallow fluff-covered chocolate dream, Chocolate Logs were discontinued in mid-2020, breaking the hearts of sweet-toothed fans nationwide. While similar treats have emerged, nothing quite matches the gooey nostalgia of this original. A small silver lining: some specialty stores carry imported alternatives, but it’s not the same, is it?
5. Tempo Chocolate Bars
For those lucky enough to have enjoyed a Tempo bar, the memory of its caramel and biscuit perfection is bittersweet. Cadbury called it quits on this ’80s-born delight in 2017, and it seems like it’s gone for good.
Tex bars are suggested as a replacement, but let’s be real…there’s no replacing perfection.
6. Peppermint Crisp (Almost Gone!)
Peppermint Crisp sparked panic in 2021 when rumours swirled about its potential discontinuation. Thankfully, the hysteria was just over a temporary shortage, and this beloved chocolate bar (essential for Peppermint Crisp Tart) remains on shelves. Still, we’re keeping an eye out, just in case.
7. Honorable Mentions: The snacks we still miss
Here’s a quick roll call for the other dearly departed: Yes/No Bars, Steers-flavoured Simba Chips, Lays Salt and Vinegar chips and Bubbaloo gum.
And don’t even get us started on Nesquik! If any of these ever return, expect another nationwide celebration.
If there is one takeaway from this list, it is to never underestimate South African snack lovers. Whether we’re signing petitions, rallying on social media, or sweet-talking local suppliers, we’ll never let our favourites go quietly.
Let’s just hope Bokomo is paying attention. Who knows? Maltabella might be the next Hellmann’s.
Emma is a freshly graduated Journalist from Stellenbosch University, who also holds an Honours in history. She joined the explain team, eager to provide thorough and truthful information and connect with her generation.
