Allen’s Fantales conspiracy theory as they are pulled from shelves

A creepy conspiracy theory has emerged just hours after Allen announced it would discontinue the Fantales lollipop after nearly a century of production.

The chocolate-covered caramel treats feature movie trivia on the wrappers and were once named “Australia’s most defining lollipop” by the New York Times.

But Allen’s announced on Tuesday that Fantales would be discontinued, as sales had fallen and the equipment used to make them broke.

Despite Allen giving a valid explanation for the end of the lollipop, some conspiracy theorists are convinced it’s all a publicity stunt to revive interest in the product.

The “publicity stunt” conspiracy theory first surfaced on social media before being broadcast on national television by Sunrise host Natalie Barr on Wednesday morning.

“Do you think it’s a publicity stunt?” she asked during an interview with Russ Eats, a popular influencer who reviews snacks.

Russ Eats said it was “a bit strange” for Allen’s to announce the shutdown via a press statement, adding that this kind of news is usually “leaked” by an employee.

He suggested that the announcement instead threatened consumers that the lollipop could be phased out “if you don’t buy more,” leading to Barr to say, “Let’s hope it’s a publicity stunt.”

Russ Eats said if it was a publicity stunt it would have worked very well for Allen’s.

“I went to Woolies and Coles, and there were empty boxes everywhere because people flocked to buy the latest Fantales,” he noted.

Thousands of Fantales fans have called on Nestle to reconsider the decision.

“Why are the good old things discounted? Why can’t we still have our favorites in store?’ one person wrote online.

“What do you mean, they stop Fantales? They are the only lollipops I really like,” tweeted another.

Others said they didn’t understand how Fantales could have suffered a drop in sales, with many writing that the household item often sells out.

“I love them, but they’re never on the shelf!” I am always looking for it!” one woman wrote.

‘I don’t understand these ‘reducing’ sales. They put out absolutely ridiculous flavors that no one buys and keep them on the shelf,” said another.

Nestle will stop production of the lollipop in mid-July, but said Fantales production line workers will be given other roles within the factory.

“Many of us grew up with Fantales and have fond memories of them,” said Allen’s spokesperson Andrew Lawrey. “Despite the sense of nostalgia that Fantales evoke, unfortunately people don’t buy them as often as they used to.

‘Moreover, our Fantales equipment requires a considerable investment. It’s getting harder and harder to get the parts we need to maintain it, and with declining sales, replacement is not feasible.”