In an unexpected turn of events set to sadden many a nostalgia-fueled candy lover, Ferrara Candy Company has announced the discontinuation of the iconic Fruit Stripe Gum. The news broke quietly, with Ferrara admitting in conversations with CBS MoneyWatch and TODAY.com that they had stopped production of the popular brand in 2022 permanently.

Having delighted fans with a burst of fruit flavors since its inception in 1969, the Fruit Stripe Gum has been a constant companion for many a sweet tooth for well over 50 years. It’s distinctively vibrant appearance, playfully represented by its zebra mascot, has been a familiar sight at candy shops across the United States.

The colorful confection offered five different fruit flavors, encapsulating the fun and whimsy of childhood with each chew. Its removal from the market signifies the end of an era in the candy world and marks the conclusion of its long and successful run.

With Fruit Stripe Gum’s cessation, fans are left with just the sweet memories of the iconic childhood treat. Though it is a sad farewell, the legacy of Fruit Stripe Gum, a beloved companion through countless childhoods, continues in the memories of its many fans.