Rum and raisin ice cream is finally returning to supermarket shelves after many shoppers were left hunting for the sophisticated taste.
Earlier this year, multiple New Zealand supermarkets said, after reviewing sales of the nostalgic flavour, they were forced to replace it with more modern tastes.
New Zealanders are among the world’s biggest consumers of ice cream, averaging roughly 28 litres per person annually.
However, the taste for rum and raisin appeared to have waned.
This week, Foodstuffs announced the flavour’s comeback in some New World stores, for a limited time.
According to the New World website, Much Moore rum and raisin flavour is now available.
Much Moore said persistent campaigning led to the flavour’s return.
“We have had a constant stream of ‘bring it back’ messages via social media and media enquiries, so we have,” the spokesperson said.
Much Moore said the return was for a limited time unless there was an “overwhelming view otherwise”.
The Herald has asked Foodstuffs for more information about whether the sweet treat is only available in Auckland or if there are plans for a national return.
Foodstuffs announced the comeback of the flavour in some New World stores. Photo / New World
Disappearing flavour
Following news that the alcohol-inspired flavour was dropped from supermarket freezers, a poll of Herald readers showed 67% of people thought it should permanently return.
Meanwhile, 9% thought the polarising flavour should remain banished from shelves.
The nostalgic flavour, often a favourite of older customers, has not yet met “classic” status, according to some supermarkets.
Before its return, a Foodstuffs spokesperson earlier said rum and raisin seemed to be heading into its twilight.
“The last product ranged in our stores was a Much Moore line, which was discontinued by the supplier over a year ago after sales tapered off.”
Rum and raisin ice cream is finally returning to supermarket shelves across New Zealand. Photo / 123RF
How does the flavour perform in specialty shops?
Despite the flavour becoming difficult to find, a shop known for the biggest ice creams in the country said the flavour was still a top pick.
Original Pōkeno Ice Creams worker Jacob earlier told the Herald rum and raisin remained within the store’s top 10 sellers, but hokey pokey consistently took the top spot.
The store has served several generations of Kiwis, and it remains one of the country’s most popular pit-stops for tourists.
Duck Island Ice Cream operations manager, Lauren Clark, told the Herald the “fuddy duddy” flavour was not a favourite in their cabinet over recent years.
Duck Island Ice Cream.
She said they haven’t stocked the flavour consistently in the five years she has been with the company.
“It’s just a little bit of a flop in the cabinet in comparison to perhaps newer classics ... like berry cheesecakes and white chocolate raspberry,” she said.
Clark said they had done a modern iteration of the flavour in the form of Whiskey and currants, which didn’t take off.
She said a reason for the flavour’s downfall could be due to the alcohol.
Clark said it can be attractive for some, but detractive to others, with non-drinking on the rise.
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