Fruit Stripe Gum, known for its vibrant stripes, temporary tattoos (featuring Yipes the Zebra), and famously short-lived fruit flavors (melon, cherry, lemon, orange, peach), was discontinued by Ferrara Candy in early 2024 after over 50 years, despite its iconic status and nostalgic appeal, due to declining consumer interest and purchasing patterns.
Product Description:
Flavor Profile: A very brief, intense burst of sweet fruit flavors (melon, cherry, lemon, orange, peach) that faded quickly, often within seconds, notes The New York Times and The Today Show.
Packaging: Distinctive zebra-striped wrappers, often featuring a temporary tattoo of the mascot, Yipes the Zebra, state Wikipedia and ABC News.
History: Introduced in the 1960s by Beech-Nut and later owned by Ferrara, it remained popular for decades as a nostalgic childhood treat, according to ProFood World, The Retroist, and WTTW.
Discontinuation: Ferrara cited changing consumer preferences, purchasing trends, and overall brand health as factors in its decision to "sunset" the product.