Food Fads That Fizzled Out
Food trends come and go, and while some were fleeting, they gave us moments of joy, creativity, and plenty of social media content.
1. Rainbow Everything
There was a time when if it wasn’t rainbow-colored, it wasn’t worth eating. Rainbow bagels, rainbow grilled cheese, even rainbow lattes were flooding social media feeds. While undeniably eye-catching, many of these foods didn’t taste any different than their standard counterparts — and the artificial coloring overload eventually lost its charm.
Fizzle Factor: All looks, little flavor.
2. Activated Charcoal
Charcoal-infused ice cream, lemonade, and even pizza crusts had a moment of moody, goth appeal. Marketed as a detox miracle, activated charcoal products popped up everywhere. But experts warned that charcoal can bind to medications and nutrients, making it more of a risk than a health boon. The trend faded faster than it arrived.
Fizzle Factor: Too edgy for everyday health.
3. Cloud Bread
During the height of the pandemic, TikTok made “cloud bread” a viral baking sensation. It was soft, pastel-colored, and very fluffy—but not very flavorful. Made with egg whites, sugar, and cornstarch, this bread alternative was more about aesthetics than actual taste or texture satisfaction.
Fizzle Factor: Fluffy, but not fulfilling.
4. Unicorn Frappuccinos
In 2017, Starbucks released a limited-edition, color-changing, ultra-sweet drink that divided coffee fans everywhere. It was high on sugar and low on substance—but that didn’t stop millions from snapping a photo before it disappeared from the menu (and memory).
Fizzle Factor: More magic than mocha.
5. Everything Cauliflower
From pizza crusts to gnocchi to mashed “potatoes,” cauliflower became the king of low-carb replacements. While it still holds strong in health circles, many consumers eventually admitted that sometimes… cauliflower just isn’t a great substitute for bread or pasta.
Fizzle Factor: Noble try, not always tasty.
6. Gold Leaf Everything
Edible gold leaf made food feel fancy — and expensive. Burgers, donuts, and even sushi got gilded, but the truth is, gold leaf adds nothing to taste or nutrition. It was a blingy trend meant to impress, not satisfy.
Fizzle Factor: Style over substance.
7. Butter Boards
Following charcuterie boards, butter boards had a viral moment—slabs of butter spread across a wooden board and adorned with herbs, edible flowers, or honey. Visually stunning, yes. Practical? Not really. Many were left wondering if they should be smearing bread on a communal butter pile.
Fizzle Factor: Pretty, but perplexing.
Pro tip: Want a trend that doesn’t fizzle out? Try a painting and wine class! It’s creative, relaxing, and always Instagram-worthy — no unicorn syrup required.
Bring in some snacks to enjoy while you're painting and sipping wine.... we won't judge what you bring :)
Share MORE Food Fads (through the decades) | Come Paint With Us!