First Cereal Boxes With Toys And Reasons They Stopped Including Toys
source: Flickr
For many people, the fond memories of digging through a cereal box in search of a hidden toy are an integral part of their childhood. However, this delightful tradition has become increasingly rare in recent years. To understand why, let’s delve into the history of when toys were first added to cereal boxes and why they eventually fell out of favor.
The inception of toys in cereal boxes dates back to the late 19th century. The concept emerged as a clever marketing strategy to boost cereal sales. In 1894, the Shredded Wheat Company included a small book as a premium giveaway in their cereal boxes, marking one of the earliest instances of toys being used as incentives. This initiative was soon followed by other cereal manufacturers.
The practice gained significant traction during the early 20th century when Kellogg’s introduced the Funny Jungleland Moving Pictures Book in 1909. This innovative inclusion sparked a cereal box toy craze. Over the decades, cereal makers introduced a wide array of toys, ranging from small trinkets and plastic figurines to puzzles and games. These toys not only enticed children but also created a sense of anticipation and excitement around breakfast.
However, the golden era of cereal box toys began to decline in the 1980s. Several factors contributed to this decline:
- Safety Concerns: As awareness of child safety grew, concerns arose about the potential hazards associated with small toys and objects in cereal boxes. There were instances of children choking on these items, prompting manufacturers to rethink their inclusion.
- Cost Considerations: Producing and distributing toys with cereal boxes incurred significant costs for manufacturers. As competition in the cereal industry increased, companies looked for ways to cut expenses, and eliminating the cost of toys became an attractive option.
- Environmental Awareness: Concerns about plastic waste and environmental sustainability also played a role. Plastic toys were not eco-friendly, and consumers began to advocate for greener packaging solutions.
- Changing Consumer Preferences: As children’s entertainment options expanded with the rise of video games and digital media, the appeal of physical toys in cereal boxes waned.
While cereal box toys are less common today, they haven’t disappeared entirely. Some companies occasionally reintroduce them as limited-time promotions or special editions. Moreover, they have evolved to align with modern values, often emphasizing sustainability and educational content.