Say what?!
Believe it or not, these foods were once marketed as health remedies
For much of American history, grocery staples didn’t just promise flavor, they also claimed to heal. Yes, you read that right: before strict regulations, inventors, pharmacists, health reformers, and plain snake oil salesmen pushed new products as cures for nerves, digestion, or things as abstract as "vitality". Take a look at 11 everyday food items that were once considered medicinal.
Image: Barnabas Davoti
1
Coca-Cola
The first item in our list is one of the most famous examples. Created in 1886 by a pharmacist named John Pemberton, Coca-Cola was introduced as a nerve tonic meant to calm headaches and boost energy . Early ads called it a "brain elixir," and it was sold from pharmacy counters.
Over time, the drink’s medicinal claims faded as its sweet and refreshing flavor alone won over the public.
Image: Artem Beliaikin
2
Grape-Nuts
Grape-Nuts arrived in 1897 with big promises about health benefits, including digestion and even appendicitis . Ads insisted on its remarkable healing power.
As science advanced, the claims faded, but the cereal stayed popular. Its crisp texture and hearty flavor became the true selling point once the medicinal hype fell through.
Image: Mona Bernhardsen
3
Corn flakes
Developed at the Battle Creek Sanitarium, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes were created as a bland, calming food meant to improve digestion and overall health . They were part of a larger awareness movement.
The cereal’s simple crunch won broad appeal, and the medical message softened. It ultimately became the breakfast staple that we know today.
Image: Deepak N
4
Ovaltine
Introduced in the early 1900s, Ovaltine claimed to boost strength, improve sleep, and support children’s growth . It was marketed as a malt-based health enhancer.
As breakfast habits changed, Ovaltine’s tine softened, but its cozy appeal endured. It became more of a nostalgic treat than a serious health product.
Image: pariwat pannium
5
7-Up
This one had some backing to its claims. When 7-Up was launched in 1929, it contained lithium citrate, an ingredient used in mood-stabilizing treatments . Early advertising pitched it as a mood-lifting, calming tonic.
As formulas changed and regulations grew, the lithium disappeared, and 7-Up’s identity shifted. It ultimately took its place as a crisp lemon-lime soda with no therapeutic claims.
Image: Shawn Powar
6
Jell-O
When Jell-O debuted, it was pitched as a pure, digestible food for children and invalids . Doctors were encouraged to recommend it as a gentle nourishment.
Its colorful aspect soon eclipsed any medicinal sales angle. Today, Jell-O is tied to family gatherings, not medicinal prescriptions.
Image: Girl with red hat
7
Fig Newtons
Early ads promoted Fig Newtons as a digestive biscuit thanks to their fruit filling . They were considered easy to assimilate and helpful for regularity issues.
Modern marketing focuses on wholesome snacking rather than health claims. Their soft, chewy texture is their lasting appeal.
Image: Armando Brenlha
8
Marshmallow candy
Before becoming modern candy, marshmallow confections were sold in pharmacies as throat soothers made from marshmallow root. They were considered medicinal lozenges.
As recipes changed, and gelatin replaced the plant extract, their purpose shifted entirely. Today, they’re tied to desserts and campfires.
Image: Ricardo Loaiza
9
Peanut butter
Health reformers promoted peanut butter as a protein-rich substitute for meat , ideal for the ill or elderly who struggled with chewing. It was part of a therapeutic diet.
Soon, its versatility outshone its medicinal beginnings. Peanut butter became beloved for sandwiches and snacks rather than health regimens.
Image: Towfiqu barbhuiya
10
Ginger Ale
Ginger Ale entered the market positioned as a stomach soother . Ginger’s long-standing reputation as a digestive remedy made the drink appealing to pharmacies.
Over time, ginger ale settled into its role as a refreshing mixer and comfort beverage. Its gentle reputation lingers, though it’s no longer pitched as a medical aid.
Image: Nancy Hughes
11
Welch’s Grape Juice
Welch’s promoted grape juice as a pure, healthful alternative to alcohol . Early ads suggested it supported vitality and overall well-being.
Its wholesome image stuck, though the medical claims did not. Today, Welch’s is associated more with family and wholesome habits than with old health ideals.
Image: Callum Hill
