Food & Drink

'This is a crime': Iconic Jaffas to be discontinued by Kiwi confectionery company

Sending another to the childhood lolly grave...

An iconic Kiwi treat has found its untimely end (again).

Jaffas, the famous red-shelled, orange-flavoured chocolate, is headed to the grave of beloved Kiwi lollies once again, as Kiwi company RJ's has confirmed it is discontinuing production.

"We are unfortunately unable to keep making Jaffas due to declining sales," a company representative said to 1News.

We know this will be disappointing news for many Kiwis and loyal Jaffas fans around New Zealand. Many of us have grown up enjoying the classic flavour combo of the crispy orange shell and smooth chocolate centre.

"However, there have sadly not been enough people buying Jaffas in recent times to support its continued ranging on shelves."

The news has sent shockwaves across social media and triggered potential panic buying among fans.

"First Pods, now Jaffas, I can’t," shared one loyal Jaffa lover.

"Honestly, don’t know what I’ll throw down the stairs at movies now," added another.

"That is a crime," said one fan on More FM's Facebook page.

Another added it may ruin Christmas too, as they wouldn't know how to make their 'Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer treats now.'

Meanwhile a Reddit user has already made plans to profit, posting "Brb gonna buy them in bulk so I can flip them on TradeMe for a 1000% increase!"

While their sales figures may have dwindled, Jaffas have left a distinct, round-shaped hole in New Zealand's confectionery history.

The treats were previously produced in Dunedin by Cadbury's parent company, Mondelez International, since 1931. For years, the Jaffas were honoured by the city with the annual charity 'Jaffa Race' down the world's steepest street, Baldwin Street.

Closure of the Dunedin Cadbury factory in 2018 saw RJ's take over production, but with the Levin-based company no longer rolling out the orange chocolate treat, it's hard to imagine who might come to the rescue for a third time.

Bring back Snifters and Tangy Fruits, I say.