Buzz
Marketers are skilled at persuading us to purchase items, often things we don’t truly need. However, history shows that they have sometimes made significant missteps. Here’s a compilation of the ten most poorly named products.
10. Wii
This one is a must-include. It’s possible that the creators weren’t aware that in British English, “wee” is a colloquial term for urine. For instance, someone might say, “I really need a wee!” Whenever the Wii is mentioned, it brings this association to mind. It’s quite amusing! Phrases like “Let’s play with our Wii” take on an entirely different connotation for British English speakers.
9. Elephant Beautiful Balls
Elephant Balls, Ltd. (EBL), a pioneer in innovative billiards, provides a comprehensive selection of billiard products tailored for enthusiasts of all skill levels. From premium pool tables and stylish furniture to distinctive ball sets and cutting-edge training aids, we offer the ideal gift for anyone, even those who seem to have it all. [Though, let’s be honest, who on earth owns Elephant balls? Well, aside from that viral Internet Meme squirrel from a while back.]
8. Gray Poupon
Grey Poupon, a Dijon mustard produced by Kraft Foods, holds the title of the top-selling Dijon-style mustard in the United States. While it’s popular, it’s not for everyone! Here’s the original advertisement for reference:
7. Sars
This beverage, crafted by Golden Circle, unfortunately shares its name with the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus, which has caused two major pandemics in recent years. The drink, flavored with sarsaparilla, is available in supermarkets across New Zealand and potentially in other regions where Golden Circle products are distributed.
6. Jussipussi
A rather “unique” bread product from Finnish company Primula. Honestly, I’m at a loss for words.
5. Kagome
Established in 1899 by Ichitaro Kanie, a trailblazer in Japanese tomato farming, Kagome has evolved into the leading producer of tomato-based products in Japan and a significant supplier of various fruit and vegetable foods. However, in Portuguese and likely Spanish, the name unfortunately translates to “I shit myself.”
4. I.beat Blaxx
If you’re in the market for an MP3 player but aren’t a fan of Apple’s iPod lineup, consider the I.beat Blaxx from German manufacturer Trekstor. Interestingly, at the time this article was written, Trekstor rebranded the black version of the I.beat to simply “Blaxx” – one can only speculate why.
3. Vagisil
Vagisil, a comprehensive range of feminine hygiene products manufactured by Combe Incorporated, launched the Vagisil Screening Kit in 2007. At least the brand doesn’t beat around the bush – they’re direct and to the point.
2. Anusol
Anusol is an OTC medication designed to treat hemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles. The product line features creams, ointments, and the notably unconventional suppository form. For the uninitiated, suppositories are wax-based inserts meant for rectal use. Let’s hope you won’t need to ask for a price check on these during your next grocery run!
1. AydsAyds (pronounced aids) was a popular diet candy in the 1980s. According to the NY Times (1982), its active ingredient was phenylpropanolamine, a substance later deemed unsafe by the FDA. As a bonus, here’s an incredibly awkward advertisement for Ayds:
Want more? Here’s another one for you.
