Sainsbury’s sweets compared to 00s favourite Bursting Bugs

Rowntree’s Bursting Bugs were first introduced in 2000 and were shaped like bugs with a gummy shell and deliciously gooey filling.

They formed part of Rowntree’s iconic range on supermarket shelves, including Jelly Tots and Fruit Pastilles.

Why were Bursting Bugs discontinued?

Bursting Bugs disappeared just a few years after they were released, in around 2003, reportedly due to low sales at the time.

However, if you were a 90s kid, there’s a chance the gooey sweets still hold a special place in your heart.

In recent years, fans have expressed their disappointment at Bursting Bugs not being around still on social media, and even a petition was started to bring them back.

Now, Sainsbury’s shoppers seem to think they have found a dupe for the iconic candy.

Sainsbury’s ‘dupe’ for Bursting Bugs

Sainsbury’s own brand range of sweets has many favourites, including its Sparkles and Liquorice Bites. And now there’s Bugs & Beetles.

In a distinctive green packaging, above the shape of a beetle reads the words ‘Juicy & Oozy’. They cost 75p.

Fans were quick to take to social media, posting in foodie group Newfoodsuk, that they may have found the modern-day version of Bursting Bugs.

“Could they be as good as bursting bugs?” one post read.

While a person commented: “I tried some yesterday, they’re so good! I remember Bursting Bugs well and I think these are the closest thing I’ve found so far.”

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“I remember these when Rowntree’s used to make them,” another said.

While another added: “OMG we need some of these – they look like the old squirty bugs Rowntree’s made.”

One person even tagged Rowntree’s in the post, writing: “@Rowntree’s Bring back Bursting Bugs! Look at how many people want them back! They were elite.”