Funny Face (drink mix)

Funny Face is a brand of drink mix that was first introduced in the United States by the Pillsbury Company in 1964. The product was marketed as a low-cost, sugar-free alternative to other popular drink mixes, such as Kool-Aid. Funny Face drink mixes were sold in individual packets and required only water to make.

History

The Funny Face brand was launched by Pillsbury in 1964, during a time when the market for powdered drink mixes was rapidly expanding. The product was initially marketed towards children, with the packaging featuring cartoon characters with exaggerated facial expressions. Each flavor of the drink mix was represented by a different character, such as Goofy Grape, Rootin' Tootin' Raspberry, and Freckle Face Strawberry.

Controversy

In the early years of its production, Funny Face came under scrutiny for its use of cyclamate, a synthetic sweetener that was later banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to concerns about its potential carcinogenic effects. Following the ban, Pillsbury reformulated the product to replace cyclamate with saccharin, another artificial sweetener.

Legacy

Despite the controversy surrounding its use of artificial sweeteners, Funny Face has maintained a loyal following among consumers. The brand's distinctive packaging and memorable characters have made it a nostalgic favorite, and it continues to be produced and sold in select markets today.

See also

• List of drink mix brands
• History of the Pillsbury Company