Nestle announces decision to discontinue childhood classic bar — and fans are not happy

The iconic Animal Bar has been around since 1963

Nestle announced its decision to discontinue two classics. Picture: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg

After 60 years, a staple of most of our childhoods is set to be discontinued.

That's right, the old reliable Animal Bar will be no more as Nestle reports a steady decline in sales over the years.

The milk chocolate bar — often found in birthday party goody bags, lunchboxes, and the hands of young kids enjoying their first encounter with sweet treats — has been around since 1963.

Featuring colourful packaging and a game inside the wrapper, the iconic treat is instantly recognisable. Every bar had two different named animals moulded on the surface.

I’ve woken to the news that the Animal bar will soon be extinct. It brings back fond memories from my childhood, and I know of no other chocolate bar that cracks in the same deliciously satisfying way. pic.twitter.com/GaN3Sa00QG

— Salvador Ryan (@SalvadorRyan) November 9, 2023

The news comes as Nestle also announced its decision to discontinue Caramac bars.

The company said: "We are very sorry to disappoint fans of Caramac. There has been a steady decline in its sales over the past few years and we had to make the difficult decision to discontinue it.

"We know fans will be disappointed to see it go, but this change will enable us to focus on our best-performing brands, as well as develop exciting new innovations to delight our consumers’ tastebuds."

Caramac fans have also expressed their disappointment after maker Nestle confirmed it is discontinuing the caramel-flavoured bar after 64 years. Picture: Nestle/PA Wire

But it seems the fans of the Animal Bar are more disappointed. Those who loved the milk chocolate treat were quick to share their shock at the news. “NESTLE WHY??? I LOVED ANIMAL BAR, DONT CANCEL IT,” wrote one fan on X (formally Twitter).

“I’ve woken to the news that the Animal bar will soon be extinct. It brings back fond memories from my childhood, and I know of no other chocolate bar that cracks in the same deliciously satisfying way,” said another.

However, Nestle has assured Animal Bar fans that they will still be available in shops while stock lasts. So, if you fancy a dose of nostalgia, pick up an Animal Bar before they disappear.