Over the years, some food brands have stood out for their ingenious and amusing April Fools’ Day pranks, leaving consumers amused and hungry for more.
From fictional funky flavors to fun collaborations, here are some fun April Fools’ Day pranks to look back on.
10 April Fools' Day Pranks by Food Brands
1. Taco Liberty Bell
April Fools’ Day pranks have been happening long before social media. In 1996, Taco Bell purchased full-page ads in seven major newspapers announcing the fast-food chain purchased and renamed the Liberty Bell. The iconic relic would be called “The Taco Liberty Bell,” according to the ad. This ingenious campaign stirred controversy and led to a ton of exposure.
2. Burger King's Left-Handed Whopper
In 1998, Burger King took the April Fools’ Day tradition to the next level by announcing the creation of the “Left-Handed Whopper” with a full-page advertisement in USA Today. The fast-food giant claimed that this specially designed burger contained the same ingredients as the original Whopper but with a 180-degree rotation of all the condiments. The ultimate way to have-it-your-way for left-handed customers? Perhaps.
3. Cheetos' "Cheateau" Fragrance
In 2014, Cheetos surprised the world by announcing its very own fragrance — the “Cheeteau.” Featuring a “playful but refined" scent, this (actually) real perfume promised to captivate the senses with buttery notes and accents of sharp cheddar.
4. Domino's Edible Pizza Box
Domino’s Pizza announced the release of an edible pizza box in 2014. Claiming to reduce waste and redefine the concept of a “complete meal,” the fictitious “Edibox” was made from a delicious pizza crust.
5. Must Love Dogs in 2019
First there was the “Pup Cup.” Then, there was Pupbucks. In 2019, Starbucks announced its new breed of (fictional) concept stores dedicated exclusively to canine clientele.
2019 was the year for dog-themed jokes, because Pizza Hut also pranked us with the Pizza M.U.T.T. delivery team. However, the pizza chain softened the blow that dogs are not, in fact, delivering pizzas with a 30% off coupon.
6. Green Giant x Peeps Cauliflower
What do peeps and cauliflower have in common? These divisive foods came together for a perfect April Fools’ prank in 2021 with cauliflower-flavored Peeps. While fictional, it wouldn’t be surprising for this to exist given the overwhelming popularity of cauliflower on menus!
7. OREO With Funfetti
A package of OREO cookies with no filling accompanied by a middle sleeve full of Funfetti frosting. Imagine the sugar high! This was a fictional collaboration in 2023 that many commenters wanted to be real. We’ll just have to settle for OREO Birthday Cake flavor.
8. Terrifying Toothpaste: Various Brands
Throughout the years, many brands have introduced their own fake spins on toothpaste. From Burger King’s The Whopper Toothpaste and White Sauce Toothpaste from the Hala Guys to GuacPaste from Chosen Foods, the toothpaste impostors are endless.
9. Papa John's Garlic Gallon
What started as an April Fools’ joke — a gallon of its signature garlic sauce available for $9.99 — became a reality due to the overwhelming demand from Papa John’s fans. For the actual product release, there were only 100 jugs available with each priced at $20.
10. Culver's Curderburger
Another April Fool’s joke turned into reality. In 2021, Culver’s tweeted a then-fictional creation: The Curgerburger, which is one giant cheese curd on a buttered bun. Due to overwhelming public interest, Culver’s launched a Curd Day Curderberger on October 15, 2021 for one day only: a Deluxe ButterBurger base topped with a giant curd. Now, the burger is available for the whole month of October. Dreams really do come true!
How a Little Tomfoolery Benefits Brands
April Fools’ Day provides food brands with multiple benefits, including:
- Brand Personality and Identity: April Fools’ Day pranks allow food brands to showcase a playful and lighthearted side of their personality, helping humanize the brand.
- Customer Engagement and Interaction: Participating in April Fools’ Day builds a stronger connection with the audience and generates higher levels of engagement. Consumers appreciate the brand’s effort to entertain them.
- Social Media Visibility: April Fools’ Day pranks often go viral on social media platforms. This shareable and memorable content can attract a broader audience and even reach potential customers who may not have been exposed to the brand before.
These pranks not only entertain, but they also serve as a testament to the creativity and innovation that these brands bring to the table. It’s safe to say that food brands will continue to surprise and delight us with their deliciously amusing antics.
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