Introduction
Sweet, chewy, and chocolatey — chicos lollies evoke a wave of nostalgia for those who remember grabbing a handful from the shop counter as kids. Though lesser-known in many regions today, these chocolate-flavoured jelly candies have a devoted following who treasure their unique texture and retro charm. In this article, we’ll take you through the origin, flavor profile, cultural impact, controversies, and current status of chicos lollies — giving you a complete picture that’s both fun to read and useful to candy aficionados.
Whether you’re rediscovering them or curious about what all the fuss is about, you’ll find something interesting here — from taste notes to collecting tips, and where (if anywhere) you can still find chicos lollies today. Let’s delve into the chewy chocolate world of this cult choc-jelly candy.
What Are Chicos Lollies?
The Basics
Chicos lollies were a type of chocolate-flavoured jelly baby candy sold under the Allen’s brand in Australia. They were known for being soft, chewy, and chocolate-infused — unlike typical gummy candies which lean fruity. Over time, chicos developed a dedicated fan base precisely because they offered a different flavor experience: chocolate, rather than fruit, in a jelly form.
The candy was often sold in multi-packs or bags, and despite their name “jelly babies,” they didn’t look like little baby figures; rather, they were simple, blob-like chewy pieces. As with many nostalgic candies, fans compare the original texture and taste to what’s available now, with sometimes skeptical opinions about whether the recipe has shifted.
The Rebranding and Name Change
An important chapter in the life of chicos lollies is the name change: in 2020, Nestlé announced that Chicos would be renamed Cheekies, citing concerns that the original name had potential insensitive connotations. The company insisted that only the name would change — not the candy itself.
For many fans, the name chicos lollies still carries the nostalgic weight, even if current shelves display Cheekies. Some devoted consumers still refer to them by the old name, and discussions online often debate whether the new version matches the original in flavor and consistency.
Flavor & Texture: What to Expect
Taste Profile
Unlike the fruity gummies or sour candies many people are used to, chicos lollies delivered a mellow chocolate taste in a jelly form. The flavor is subtle, not intensely cocoa-rich, but distinct enough to stand out from standard jelly sweets. That balance between “jelly candy” and “chocolate hint” is part of what drew a niche crowd.
Because chocolate is a flavor typically reserved for bars, powders, or truffles, its inclusion in a chewy candy format gives chicos a bit of novelty. For some, the mildness is its charm; for others, it may read as underwhelming if one expects a bold chocolate punch.
Soft Yet Chewy
The texture is as central to the chicos experience as the taste. They are soft, pliable, chewy—not hard gummies but also not mushy or overly squishy. Some long-time fans claim that version changes over the years have altered that texture slightly (post-name change). For instance, a Reddit user noted:
“Since Allen’s changed the name of Chicos to Cheekies … they are now soft and kinda mushy, where they used to be more chewy like a jelly baby.” (Reddit)
Texture perceptions can be subjective, especially with candies that evolve over time. Still, if you try chicos lollies today, expect a soft chew, somewhat reminiscent of a traditional jelly baby but with chocolate flavor.
The Appeal & Collector Culture
Nostalgia Factor
A big reason chicos lollies still spark interest is nostalgia. For many Australians (and candy fans globally), these sweets recall childhood convenience stores, candy counters, and the excitement of trying something slightly different. That “memory taste” often amplifies the emotional connection — people aren’t just buying candy, they’re buying a memory.
Collector & Limited Edition Interest
While chicos (now Cheekies) are not as actively marketed in every region, their retro appeal means that some specialty shops, importers, or online candy retailers carry old-stock or limited editions. Candy enthusiasts sometimes treat them as collector items — buying older or special batch packs for taste comparison or memorabilia could be of interest.
If you’re collecting, it’s wise to check packaging dates, color variants, and authenticity. Some older wrappers with the original “Chicos” branding attract more attention among collectors than the current ones.
Controversy & Social Context
Name Sensitivity and Rebranding
The name chicos drew scrutiny in the cultural climate of evolving awareness. Critics pointed out that while “chico” in Spanish literally means “boy” or “kid,” in some contexts it can also be considered a derogatory term relating to Latin American heritage. Nestlé responded by renaming the product, citing respect and inclusivity as reasons for the change.
The move sparked conversation around legacy brands, cultural sensitivity, and how much product identity is tied to naming. Some fans mourned the name change as a loss of heritage; others applauded the decision to modernize. While the product remained essentially the same (as claimed by Nestlé), perception matters — for many, “Chicos lollies” remains the name they remember and search for, even if the shelves show “Cheekies.”
Perceived Recipe or Texture Changes
As with many long-standing candies, consumers sometimes claim that changes in ingredients or manufacturing have altered the taste or mouthfeel over time. Whether those perceptions reflect reality or memory bias can be hard to verify. But such debates are part of what keeps the conversation around chicos alive in candy communities.
Finding & Buying Chicos Lollies Today
Where to Look
Because of the rebranding, chicos lollies may no longer appear under that name in mainstream shops. To find them, you might need to:
- Search specialty import candy shops (especially Australian candy retailers)
- Look online via global candy distributors
- Check international grocery sections in large supermarkets
- Browse collector or vintage candy forums
Some listings still carry “Chicos” as the product name for nostalgic appeal, even if they are, in fact, the new Cheekies version. Always check packaging and description carefully. (Aussie Food Express)
What to Watch Out For
- Expiration and freshness: Older stock might degrade in taste or texture.
- Authentic packaging: Look for official branding and seals.
- Shipping costs & customs: Candy imports may carry extra fees or restrictions in your country.
- Flavor consistency: Be prepared that current versions may differ slightly from memory — softness or chewiness can vary batch to batch.
Tips to Enjoy & Use Chicos Lollies
Serving Suggestions
- Pair them with other sweets or chocolate bars for a texture contrast
- Crush and sprinkle them over ice cream or yogurt for an unexpected chocolate chewy crunch
- Use them as party favors or retro-themed candy jars
- Combine with other candy flavors for a “mix & match” candy experience
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Because of their jelly nature, they can stick together in humid conditions. Use airtight containers or small individual bags to preserve chew quality.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Are chicos lollies still made today?
A: Yes — though they are now marketed under the name Cheekies in many places after a name change in 2020.
Q: Did the flavor or recipe change when chicos rebranded to Cheekies?
A: The company claims the recipe stayed the same, but some long-time fans say they notice slight shifts in texture or softness over time.
Q: Why was the name “Chicos” changed?
A: The brand changed the name out of concern that the original name carried overtones that might marginalize or offend, seeking to align with more respectful values.
Q: Where can I buy the original chicos version?
A: You may find vintage or leftover stock via online candy importers, specialty shops, or among collectors. But be careful that the product is fresh and authentic.
Q: What does chicos lollies’ flavor remind me of?
A: The flavor is a gentle chocolate-jelly hybrid — more subtle than a chocolate bar, but chocolate-forward compared to fruity gummies.
Conclusion
Chicos lollies, those soft chocolatey jelly treats, continue to linger in the hearts and memories of candy lovers — even if today’s shelves list them as Cheekies. Their unusual flavor profile, nostalgic pull, and chewy texture make them a unique candy experience that still sparks curiosity. Whether you hunt down a vintage pack or try a modern equivalent, understanding their backstory, flavor dynamics, and social context adds richness to every bite.
If you’re a fan or newcomer, consider trying the current version, comparing texture and taste, and joining candy communities to see how others perceive the changes. And if you’d like help finding a pack or comparing versions in different countries, just ask — I’d be happy to help dig further.