ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. — Klondike, a Unilever brand, is discontinuing the nearly 40-year run of its Choco Taco treat.
“We’re always updating our product portfolio to create new, exciting innovations that reflect consumer preferences and trends,” Klondike said in a tweet. “A necessary but unfortunate part of this process is that we sometimes discontinue products in order to ensure we can offer the best variety nationwide.”
Alan Drazen invented the Choco Taco in Philadelphia in 1983. It was first available on ice cream trucks and in convenience stores in 1984, and it debuted in supermarkets in 1996. It gained popularity when it partnered with Taco Bell, but it was taken off the menu for seven years until a return to select locations in February.
The treat features fudge-swirled ice cream in a chocolate wafer reminiscent of a hard taco shell.
According to the company, the decision was made due to a spike in demand for other Klondike products over the last two years.
To save the dessert, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian told Unilever via Twitter that he would buy the rights. Patrick Shriver, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son affirmed that he would go in on it as well.
After stipulation regarding whether the discontinuation was a publicity stunt, Klondike shared a Tweet confirming the news while implying that there will be more updates to come.
I want to address the rumors: I’m really being discontinued, it’s not a PR stunt. I knew you loved me, but not THIS much. While I reflect on this outpouring of support, we are discussing next steps, including what to do with the last 912 (we counted) tacos at HQ. Stay tuned… pic.twitter.com/7tswyPVb5c
— Choco Taco (@Klondikebar) July 28, 2022
Englewood Cliffs, N.J.-based Unilever supplies food, home care, personal care and refreshment products. In the United States, its portfolio includes brands such as Axe, Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, Country Crock, Good Humor, Hellmann's, I Can't Believe It's Not Butter!, Klondike, Lipton, Magnum, Popsicle, Promise, Q-tips, Seventh Generation and Vaseline, among others.
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