Everything Pocky… Stick to Fun
You’ve seen it on grocery store shelves, on YouTube, and in the hands of your favorite anime characters. It’s Pocky, and it’s one of the most popular snacks in Japan.
These simple chocolate-dipped cookie sticks have been around for decades, and their popularity only seems to be growing with each passing year. Sure, there are plenty of other Japanese snacks out there, but Pocky is truly iconic.
History
Pocky was developed in 1965/66, and was originally sold under the name “Chocoteck”. Almost from day one, Pocky was a smash hit. In the first two years alone, Pocky netted the equivalent of $235 million US. A second flavor, Almond, hit store shelves in 1971, and Strawberry joined the ranks in 1977.
Today, dozens of flavors of Pocky are available.
Flavors
Over the years, there have been countless variations on the original Pocky. There have been flavors based on fruit (yubari melon, five berry, kiwi, grape, peach, pumpkin), as well as flavors that are distinctly Japanese (green tea, azuki bean, purin/pudding). Other popular flavors have included Royal Milk Tea, Coconut and Tsubu-Tsubu Strawberry (which includes pieces of real strawberries). So-called Men’s Pocky is also available, which features bittersweet chocolate (In Japan, many people do not consider it manly to eat sweets).
Anime/Manga
Anime and manga characters have been eating Pocky since…well, since forever! Series that have included characters with a Pocky fixation include Onegai Teacher!, Rozen Maiden, Full Metal Panic!, X/1999, Get Backers, and the movie Spirited Away.
Pocky, Pocky, Everywhere
Pocky isn’t just a snack. It’s part of the Japanese cultural landscape. It’s also a fashion statement and an accessory. Check out these pictures.
Commercials
Perhaps the best way to understand the pop culture phenomenon that is Pocky is to watch some commercials.
Pocky Zombies!
Men’s Pocky
Pocky in the Rain!
This one features the popular group Morning Musume.
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