Hostess Drops Crypto-Themed Snack Called ‘$TWINKcoin’ Like Bitcoin Tanks
There’s a new cryptocurrency in town. But the only crash you will experience with this is from sugar.
Inspired by the latest headlines and discussions surrounding cryptocurrency, Hostess decided to capitalize by debuting her own edible investment: Enter $TWINKcoin, the latest limited-edition Twinkie iteration to hit shelves.
Hostess®
shopwild.com
$3.49
“We saw an opportunity to release a new version of the fan-favorite Hostess Twinkies, to create the best investment consumers can make to satisfy their snacking needs,” a Hostess representative told Decrypt. “With more than 12,000 cryptocurrencies already in existence, $TWINKcoin is the first coin-shaped golden sponge cake of its kind. Plus, it’s a currency with stable value – it’s always delicious!”
Compositionally, $TWINKcoins are indistinguishable from original Twinkies, with the same dense cake and synthetic cream filling; but instead of the classic cylindrical shape, the pecuniary pastries are shaped into coin-shaped discs. And while the dollar sign in front of its name is a fun nod to the $Cashtag used to track discussions about a particular asset online, $TWINKcoin has nothing to do with blockchain (and requires no knowledge of cryptocurrency to enjoy).
Beyond being shamelessly gimmicky, the hostess’s decision to call the product “$TWINKcoin” raised a few internet eyebrows, given the reductive connotation “twink” often has in queer slang (though the slur is possibly derived from the treat itself). The term is in some ways unsavory reminiscent of the AYDS diet candy campaigns of the 80s, forgetfulness or not.
Cruel names aside, this isn’t the first time the kitchen has encountered crypto. New York-based beverage maker Long Island Iced Tea changed its name to “Long Blockchain Corp.” in 2017, sending shares soaring over 200%. In 2021, Taco Bell joined the crypto collector craze and minted its own non-fungible tokens (NFTs) which immediately sold out. Even Pringles jumped on the bandwagon and released limited editions CryptoCrisps same year.
Unfortunately, you won’t be seeing $TWINKcoin on Coinbase anytime soon – only your teeth will certainly strike gold when you buy these sponge cakes. The crypto candy can be purchased exclusively through PopWild for now, but like cybercash, supply is limited: those hungry for the sweet shekels are limited to 3 boxes per person, and they’re only available until August 8.
So stock up now in the spirit of laissez faire economics while you have the chance – given the snack’s notorious durability, they may even outlast bitcoin.
