The Colorful Legacy of Fruit Stripe Gum
Share
A Brief History of Fruit Stripe Gum
Fruit Stripe Gum is one of the most nostalgic chewing gum brands in America, known for its vibrant colors and bold fruity flavors. First introduced in 1969 by Beech-Nut, Fruit Stripe quickly became a favorite among kids and adults alike. The gum was later acquired by the Hershey Company in the 1980s and eventually found a home under the Ferrara Candy Company, which continues to produce it today.
The gum was unique for its zebra-striped pieces, an aesthetic that made it stand out in a crowded market. However, one of its most memorable attributes was its fleeting flavor—intensely delicious for a brief moment before quickly fading away. Despite this short-lived taste, Fruit Stripe Gum maintained a cult following due to its fun presentation and nostalgic appeal.
The Iconic Mascot: Yipes the Zebra
One of the most recognizable elements of Fruit Stripe Gum is its beloved mascot, Yipes the Zebra. Yipes has been a staple of the brand for decades, appearing on packaging and promotional materials. Unlike many other gum mascots, Yipes embodies the playful and adventurous spirit of childhood, often depicted engaging in energetic activities like skateboarding, surfing, or playing sports.
Yipes wasn't alone in the early days of Fruit Stripe marketing. The brand also featured other animal characters, including a tiger, an elephant, and a giraffe. However, over time, Yipes became the face of Fruit Stripe Gum, cementing his place in pop culture history.
The Evolution of the Fruit Stripe Logo and Packaging
Fruit Stripe Gum's branding has undergone several redesigns over the years, but it has always maintained a vibrant and playful aesthetic. The original packaging featured bold, rainbow-colored stripes with images of Yipes and other mascots in action.
As the years passed, the packaging modernized, but it continued to emphasize bright colors and excitement. The classic "5 Juicy Flavors!" tagline has remained a key selling point, reminding customers of the gum’s assortment of fruity flavors, including cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and wet 'n wild melon.
Another unique aspect of Fruit Stripe Gum packaging is its inclusion of temporary tattoos inside the wrapper. This interactive feature added an extra layer of fun for kids, making it more than just a chewing gum—it was an experience.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Despite the rise of sugar-free gums and changing consumer preferences, Fruit Stripe Gum has remained a nostalgic favorite. It frequently appears in pop culture references, retro candy discussions, and 90s throwback merchandise.
For those who want to relive their childhood memories, Fruit Stripe Gum’s branding extends beyond just gum. Fans can showcase their love for Yipes and his rainbow-striped legacy with Fruit Stripe-themed merchandise, such as:
These items allow fans to celebrate the timeless appeal of Fruit Stripe Gum in style.
The Future of Fruit Stripe Gum
Although it remains a niche product, Fruit Stripe Gum continues to delight those who seek a taste of nostalgia. Its colorful branding, memorable mascot, and unique marketing elements make it a standout product in the candy aisle. Whether enjoyed for its brief burst of fruity goodness or cherished as a childhood relic, Fruit Stripe Gum remains a true classic in the world of confectionery.