Cheese Dunk was a popular snack food introduced by Planters in the early 2000s. It consisted of nuts and cheese in a crunchy coating and came in varieties like cheddar and smoked gouda. Many people who grew up during this time have fond memories of enjoying Cheese Dunk and are curious if it’s still available for purchase.
What was Cheese Dunk?
Cheese Dunk first hit store shelves in the early 2000s as a new flavor extension to Planters’ line of Dunk crispy coated nuts. It combined the salty, savory taste of cheese with the crunch of Dunk’s outer shell. Some of the Cheese Dunk varieties over the years included:
- Aged White Cheddar
- Smoked Gouda
- Swiss Almond
- Jalapeño Cheddar
In a market full of sweet, sugary snack foods, Cheese Dunk offered something uniquely savory and satisfying. The creamy cheese flavor balanced with the nutty crunch made it popular for snacking, recipes, and party mixes.
When was Cheese Dunk available?
Cheese Dunk first appeared on store shelves in the early 2000s. The exact introduction date is unclear, but many fans recall enjoying it as early as 2001-2002. It remained steadily on the market throughout the 2000s as one of Planters’ core Dunk products.
In 2013, Kraft Foods (which owned Planters at the time) did a major revamp of the Dunk line. They trimmed the offerings down to the bestselling flavors, which meant discontinuing niche products like Cheese Dunk. After over a decade on the market, Cheese Dunk was phased out in 2013.
Why was Cheese Dunk discontinued?
Kraft has not officially stated a reason, but the discontinuation of Cheese Dunk in 2013 appeared to be part of a larger strategy. That same year, many Planters products were streamlined or cut. The focus seemed to be keeping only top-selling items and flavors.
It’s likely the unique Cheese Dunk simply didn’t have as broad appeal as chocolate or sweet varieties. While it had a cult following, it was probably not profitable enough to justify continued national distribution. Still, the loss was felt by its true fans who missed having that savory cheese snack option.
Is there anything similar still available?
Currently, there are no new products quite like Cheese Dunk on the market. However, consumers looking to satisfy that craving do have some options:
- Planters Cheez Balls – These are crunchy, ball-shaped snacks coated in cheese flavoring. They offer a similar salty, cheesy taste profile.
- Moon Lodge Cheddar Nuggets – These baked crispy snacks are also in a cheese flavor, though the texture is lighter.
- DIY recipes – Some loyal fans have tried recreating Cheese Dunk at home using nuts, cheese powder, and puffed rice cereals.
While not an exact replacement, these alternatives can hit the spot for that nostalgic Cheese Dunk flavor in snack form.
Will Cheese Dunk ever return?
There are currently no indications that Planters has plans to bring back Cheese Dunk. In the 10 years since it was discontinued, they have focused on core nut varieties and limited edition flavors.
However, hope is not completely lost for Cheese Dunk fans. Planters seems to be more experimental lately with more retired flavors returning. Products like Peanut Butter Crisps and Cheez Balls have made a comeback due to consumer demand. If enough interest is shown, it’s possible Cheese Dunk could return someday in the future.
For now, the best option is to keep an eye out for any re-release announcements and let Planters know there is still consumer appetite for this cult favorite snack. Cheese Dunk’s unique taste and texture are missed, and its return would excite many nostalgic fans.
What are people saying about missing Cheese Dunk?
Across the internet, Cheese Dunk has many fans pining for its return:
- Reddit threads debate why it was ever discontinued
- Facebook groups like “Bring Back Cheese Dunk” share memories
- YouTube videos wish for its comeback
- Petitions have circulated asking Planters to re-release it
Some sample quotes from Cheese Dunk lovers:
| Person | Quote |
|---|---|
| Mandy, 33 | “Cheese Dunk was my after school snack all through middle school. I’ve never found another cheese flavored snack that compares.” |
| James, 41 | “Those were just the best party mix addition back in college. So disappointed when I saw Cheese Dunk was discontinued.” |
| Sarah, 28 | “My grandma always had Cheese Dunk at her house growing up. I still crave that unique, salty, crunchy cheese flavor.” |
It’s clear Cheese Dunk left a lasting flavor impression and still has many fans wishing for its comeback after all these years. There is still interest in the market if Planters ever decides to bring back this cult classic.
Where can you still find Cheese Dunk products?
While Cheese Dunk is discontinued, limited stock may still linger in some locations. Here are a few places collectors might spot it:
- Secondary markets like eBay – People resell at inflated prices
- Discounted closeout stores – Sold until remaining inventory is gone
- International sellers – Some foreign markets may still have stock
- Old-fashioned mom & pop shops – Unlikely, but stored stock is possible
Finding Cheese Dunk today often involves calling around and getting lucky. Be prepared to pay higher than original prices. But for truly devoted fans, the hunt may be worth it!
How can you get Planters to bring back Cheese Dunk?
If you’re interested in trying to convince Planters to rerelease Cheese Dunk, here are some options:
- Call and email Planters customer service – Directly voice demand to the company.
- Comment on Planters’ social media – Flood their Facebook and Twitter with requests.
- Start online petitions – Rally support from fellow fans.
- Write letters – Physical mail can stand out and show dedication.
Planters seems to pay attention to customer feedback, especially online. If demand and buzz around Cheese Dunk builds, the company may see profit potential and consider bringing it back. Be persistent and creative, and enlist other nostalgic snackers to help show Cheese Dunk deserves a second chance.
Conclusion
For fans of the beloved Cheese Dunk snack from the early 2000s, its discontinuation in 2013 was disappointing. This uniquely savory and crunchy cheese flavored treat has not seen an adequate replacement since being phased out.
However, with enough sustained customer interest and pressure, there is still hope. Cheese Dunk clearly left its mark, and many are eagerly awaiting its potential comeback. Anyone craving that salty nut and cheese crunch should keep an eye out for any re-release news from Planters.
In the meantime, limited old stock may linger in secondary markets for those willing to hunt and pay a premium. For Cheese Dunk devotees, no effort is too great to get their hands on this fondly remembered snack. Its return would excite millennial snackers everywhere who have nostalgia for this cult classic.