AN “absolutely elite” 80s sweet has been spotted on UK shelves – 28 years after it underwent a major rebrand.
The fruity chews were known for their bright coloured packaging and iconic ad line – but nowadays, you’d know them better as Starbursts.
Now rebranded as Starburst, Opal Fruits were a beloved sweet that first launched in 1960 Credit: Sainsbury’s
Shoppers have spotted the sweets on the shelves of several discount stores Credit: Unknown
Eagle-eyed shoppers have spotted the retro sweets on the shelves of several discount supermarkets, and it’s a nostalgic blast from the past.
True sweet fans will know that the beloved Starburst was originally launched as Opal Fruits.
Sign up for the Money newsletter
Thank you!
Despite being axed over 30 years ago, it appears the historic sweet treat is back in stores.
Currently available at Poundland, Home Bargains and B&M and retail for £1, 99p and 95p respectively.
CHOC DELIGHT
Tony’s Chocolonely drops ‘dreamy’ new flavour that’s perfect for movie nights
RAISE THE BAR
Four discontinued 80s chocolate bars hit M&S shelves for just £1 TODAY
A shopper posted a picture of the sweets this week to Facebook which read: “Spotted in B&M. Opal Fruits. Thought I was seeing things, when did this happen?”
“Britain is healing,” commented one user.
Another chimed in with the iconic tag line for the fruity sweets: “Made to make your mouth water.”
First launched in 1960, Opal Fruits were a staple of the sweet shelves until they were rebranded as Starburst in 1998.
The individually wrapped chewy sweets were originally made up of strawberry, orange, lime and lemon flavours.
However, the revamp saw the combining of lemon and lime and the introduction of a new blackcurrant flavour.
Nowadays, Opal Fruits are tricky to come across in the UK, but Mars Wrigley has delighted shoppers by bringing the products back to stores three times – in 2021, 2024 and 2025.
At the time, Florence McGivern, Skittles Senior Brand Manager commented told The Jattvibe: “Our new limited-edition Opal Fruits will be as iconic as it was in the 90s, giving fans the chance to revisit the strawberry, lemon, orange and lime flavours from decades ago.
“The nostalgia trend continues to resonate strongly with consumers, and we are giving them the chance to reconnect with memories from that time.”
She added: “This limited edition follows successful runs in 2021 and 2024, and we are especially excited about this release as we continue to celebrate the rich heritage of an iconic brand.”
