The Australian pantry is a treasure trove of iconic snacks and treats that have stood the test of time, with Arnott’s biscuits being a staple in many households. However, change is a constant, and sometimes it brings about decisions that leave fans with a bittersweet taste.
In a recent turn of events, Arnott’s has made a ‘difficult but necessary’ call to discontinue a beloved member of its biscuit family. The move has upset fans, especially those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease. For them, finding delicious alternatives to classic snacks can be a challenge.
Talking about the decision to discontinue Arnott’s Choc Ripple Glutten Free, Arnott’s Treating Business Director Ranita Cowled told 9honey, ‘As we continued to expand our Gluten Free range to offer more variety with exciting new products such as Arnott’s Tim Tam Gluten Free, Barbecue Shapes Gluten Free and Jatz Gluten Free, we have found that sales of some of our original gluten-free range have slowed.’
This news has sent ripples through the gluten-free community, with many expressing their disappointment on social media.
However, Arnott’s assures that it will ‘remain committed to offering a variety of delicious and innovative Gluten Free options for the whole family to enjoy and look forward to sharing what’s next.’
Social media creator Christopher Tsalikis, known for his gluten-free food reviews, talked about the ‘heartbreaking news’ with his followers.
‘These crunchy, chocolatey legends were the MVP of gluten-free desserts – goodbye, ripple cakes and sweet moments! It’s a bittersweet farewell, but let’s give these biscuits the standing ‘crumb-ovation’ they deserve,’ he told his followers.
‘If you spot any in-store, stock up before they’re gone for good!’
Tsalikis also shared screenshots of Arnott previously replying to his message and confirming the Choc Ripple’s end of production.
‘Good morning, yes, unfortunately, we stopped production of the Gluten Free Choc Ripple. Rest assured, we will pass along your message to the team,’ Arnott’s replied.
His video captured the sentiment of many, highlighting the Choc Ripple’s role in creating cherished desserts like the Choc Ripple cake.
‘Okay, Christmas is ruined for those wanting gluten-free chocolate ripple cake,’ commented one person.
‘This is truly devastating to my preschooler coeliac kid. [Chocolate] ripples are her [favourite]. All of the other [gluten-free biscuits] taste like you are eating plaster, cement, or play dough. She would not touch them,’ wrote one mum.
Someone else pleaded, ‘Please do not remove the chocolate ripple biscuits. They are fantastic for baking and are brilliant for dunking in your coffee. Please don’t take them from us.’
Despite the public outcry, Arnott’s has not indicated whether there is any chance of a comeback for the Gluten Free Choc Ripple. As it stands, the discontinuation seems final, leaving fans to scramble for any remaining stock and bid farewell to a beloved treat.
At YourLifeChoices, we understand the importance of having access to enjoyable food options that cater to dietary restrictions. The loss of the Gluten Free Choc Ripple is a reminder of the delicate balance brands must maintain between meeting consumer needs and staying competitive in the market.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts and memories of Arnott’s Gluten Free Choc Ripple. Have you been affected by this discontinuation? What are your go-to gluten-free snacks? Let’s discuss this in the comments below.
Also read: Arnott’s introduces a new spin to a classic favourite