Old Mentos Commercial: A Blast From The Past That Still Fizzles

Jeffery Orn 13 May 2025

Let’s talk about old Mentos commercials, shall we? You know, those iconic ads that brought a refreshing breeze into our lives. Whether you’re a fan of the minty freshness or just love seeing people get pied in the face with Mentos, these commercials have left an indelible mark on pop culture. But what made them so memorable? And why do they still resonate with us today? We’re diving deep into the world of fizzy fun, so buckle up!

Old Mentos commercials weren’t just about selling candy. They were about creating moments that stuck with us, whether it was the dramatic music, the quirky characters, or the sheer hilarity of seeing someone get soaked in soda. These ads weren’t just ads—they were experiences. So, if you’ve ever wondered why Mentos became a household name, this article’s got you covered.

Now, before we dive headfirst into the fizzy goodness, let’s set the scene. Mentos has been around for decades, but its marketing game really took off when those classic commercials hit the airwaves. And guess what? People loved them. Loved them so much, in fact, that even today, those ads are still talked about, shared, and referenced. So, let’s explore why these old Mentos commercials were the bomb—literally and figuratively.

The History of Mentos Commercials
Iconic Characters in Old Mentos Ads
Common Themes in Mentos Commercials
The Role of Music in Mentos Ads
Most Memorable Mentos Commercials
The Impact on Pop Culture
The Science Behind the Fizz
Controversies Surrounding Mentos Ads
Modern Mentos Commercials: A Shift in Strategy
The Legacy of Old Mentos Commercials

The History of Mentos Commercials

Back in the day, Mentos was just another candy on the shelves. Sure, it had its fans, but it wasn’t exactly a household name. That all changed when the company decided to up its marketing game. Enter the old Mentos commercials, which started hitting screens in the late '80s and early '90s. These ads weren’t just about showing off the product—they were about creating a vibe, a feeling, and a connection with the audience.

One of the key elements that made these commercials stand out was their humor. Whether it was slapstick comedy, over-the-top drama, or just plain absurdity, Mentos ads had it all. And let’s not forget the music. Those dramatic scores added a layer of excitement that made every ad feel like a mini-blockbuster. It was genius marketing at its finest.

Evolution of Mentos Ads

Over the years, Mentos commercials evolved, but they never lost their signature style. From the early days of simple setups to the more elaborate productions we saw in the 2000s, the brand consistently delivered content that resonated with audiences. And while the format may have changed, the core message remained the same: Mentos is fresh, fun, and always a little bit unexpected.

Iconic Characters in Old Mentos Ads

No discussion about old Mentos commercials would be complete without talking about the characters. From the dapper gentlemen in suits to the hapless victims of Mentos-induced chaos, these characters became synonymous with the brand. They were quirky, relatable, and downright hilarious.

The "Freshmaker" – The guy who always had the solution to bad breath, complete with a dramatic entrance and a signature line.
The Victim – The poor soul who always ended up getting soaked in soda or pie in the face. We loved them, but we also felt a little sorry for them.
The Sidekick – The loyal companion who always seemed to be in on the joke, adding an extra layer of humor to the ads.

Why Characters Matter

Characters are the heart and soul of any good commercial. They give the audience someone to root for—or against—and they make the ads memorable. In the case of Mentos, the characters were so well-loved that they became part of pop culture. People didn’t just remember the ads—they remembered the people in them.

Common Themes in Mentos Commercials

Old Mentos commercials were known for their recurring themes, and these themes helped establish the brand’s identity. Whether it was the classic "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade" trope or the more absurd "Mentos + soda = chaos," these ads always had a message to convey.

One of the most common themes was the idea of freshness. Mentos was all about being fresh, both in terms of breath and in terms of attitude. Another recurring theme was the unexpectedness of life. Life’s unpredictable, but with Mentos, you’re always prepared. And let’s not forget the humor. These ads were funny, and that’s what made them so effective.

Breaking Down the Themes

Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most common themes in old Mentos commercials:

Freshness – The ultimate goal of every Mentos ad.
Unexpectedness – Life’s full of surprises, and Mentos is there to help you navigate them.
Humor – Because who doesn’t love a good laugh?

The Role of Music in Mentos Ads

Music played a huge role in the success of old Mentos commercials. Those dramatic scores added a layer of excitement that made every ad feel like a mini-movie. Whether it was a sweeping orchestral piece or a catchy jingle, the music was always memorable.

One of the most iconic pieces of music from Mentos ads was the "Freshmaker" theme. You know the one—the dramatic entrance, the slow build-up, and then BAM! Freshness. It was a sound that instantly evoked the brand and its message.

Why Music Matters

Music is a powerful tool in advertising. It sets the tone, evokes emotions, and makes ads more memorable. In the case of Mentos, the music was so well-done that it became part of the brand’s identity. People didn’t just remember the ads—they remembered the music too.

Most Memorable Mentos Commercials

There are certain Mentos commercials that stand out above the rest. Whether it was the sheer absurdity of the situation or the perfect execution of the joke, these ads were unforgettable. Here are a few of the most memorable ones:

The "Mentos Fountain" – Who could forget the iconic soda geyser? It was pure chaos, and we loved every second of it.
The "Freshmaker" – The guy who always had the solution to bad breath, complete with a dramatic entrance and a signature line.
The "Pie in the Face" – Classic slapstick comedy at its finest. Poor guy never saw it coming.

What Made Them Memorable?

These commercials were memorable because they were unexpected, funny, and perfectly executed. They didn’t just sell candy—they sold an experience. And that’s what made them so successful.

The Impact on Pop Culture

Old Mentos commercials didn’t just impact the candy industry—they impacted pop culture as a whole. They became a part of our collective consciousness, referenced in movies, TV shows, and even memes. And while the brand may have evolved over the years, those classic ads will always hold a special place in our hearts.

One of the reasons Mentos ads had such a big impact was their ability to tap into universal themes. Everyone can relate to bad breath, unexpected situations, and the need for a little humor in life. And that’s what made them so effective.

Pop Culture References

Here are a few examples of how Mentos commercials have been referenced in pop culture:

TV Shows – Mentos ads have been parodied and referenced in shows like "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."
Movies – The "Mentos Fountain" has made appearances in several films, including "Superbad."
Memes – The internet loves a good Mentos meme, and there are plenty of them out there.

The Science Behind the Fizz

While the ads were all about fun and entertainment, there was some serious science behind the fizzy goodness of Mentos. The reaction between Mentos and soda is a classic example of a chemical reaction, and it’s one that fascinates both kids and adults alike.

When you drop a Mentos into a bottle of soda, the candy’s rough surface creates thousands of nucleation sites where carbon dioxide bubbles can form. This causes the soda to fizz violently, creating the iconic geyser effect. It’s a simple yet fascinating reaction that has captured the imagination of people around the world.

Why It Matters

Understanding the science behind the fizz adds another layer of appreciation for the product. It’s not just a candy—it’s a science experiment in a wrapper. And that’s what makes it so cool.

Controversies Surrounding Mentos Ads

Not all Mentos commercials were met with universal acclaim. Some of them sparked controversy, either because of their content or their execution. One of the most notable controversies was the "Mentos Fountain" ad, which some people felt was promoting dangerous behavior.

Despite the controversy, Mentos stood by its ads, arguing that they were meant to be fun and entertaining. And while some people may have been offended, the majority of viewers loved them. After all, a little controversy never hurt anyone.

Lessons Learned

Controversy can be a double-edged sword in advertising. While it can generate buzz and increase visibility, it can also alienate potential customers. The key is to strike a balance between being edgy and being respectful. And in the case of Mentos, they managed to do just that.

Modern Mentos Commercials: A Shift in Strategy

As the years went by, Mentos commercials evolved to reflect changing times and consumer preferences. While the core message remained the same, the format and style of the ads changed to appeal to a new generation of viewers.

Today’s Mentos commercials are more focused on social media and digital marketing. They’re shorter, snappier, and designed to be shared. And while they may not have the same level of production value as the old ads, they still pack a punch.

Why the Shift?

The shift in strategy was driven by changes in consumer behavior. People are consuming media differently now, and brands have had to adapt. By focusing on digital platforms and social media, Mentos is able to reach a wider audience and engage with them in new and exciting ways.

The Legacy of Old Mentos Commercials

Old Mentos commercials may be a thing of the past, but their legacy lives on. They were groundbreaking in their time, and they set the standard for what a successful ad campaign should look like. And while the brand has evolved over the years, those classic ads will always hold a special place in our hearts.

So, the next time you see a Mentos commercial, take a moment to appreciate its history. These ads weren’t just about selling candy—they were about creating memories, and that’s something that will never go out of style.

Final Thoughts

Old Mentos commercials were more than just ads—they were experiences. They made us laugh, they made us think, and they made us crave that minty freshness. And while the world has changed since those ads first aired, the magic of Mentos remains the same.

So, what do you think? Are old Mentos commercials your jam? Or do you prefer the newer ads? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends. Because, hey, who doesn’t love a good Mentos story?

Mentos Logo LogoDix

Mentos Duo Pack Tropical Mentos UK

Underreported Regions