If you caught my last post about the legendary Pocky, you already know just how deep my love of Japanese snack sticks goes. Now, as promised, here’s a deep dive into Pocky’s salty sibling—Pretz—a snack that deserves just as much attention. They’re more than just a naked pocky stick.

A Brief (but Flavorful) History of Pretz

Pretz first made its debut in 1962, hitting the scene a few years ahead of the now world-famous Pocky. Both snacks were dreamed up by Glico, a company that’s been fueling Japan’s snacking habits since the early 20th century. When Pretz launched, it broke snack conventions: instead of a sweet coating, all the flavor was baked right in.

Pretz quickly gained popularity as a go-to treat for people of all ages who wanted something savory. Over time, Pretz became a convenience store staple, with ever-changing flavors popping up to match the adventurous spirit of Japanese snack culture—sometimes even mimicking popular local dishes. It’s no exaggeration to say Pretz helped pioneer a whole new world of creative and craveable snacks in Japan and secured Glico’s reputation as a snack innovator.

What Makes Pretz Different?

Pretz flips the Pocky script. Rather than being dipped or coated, the biscuit stick itself is seasoned—either with a dusting of flavor, or, even better, with the seasoning baked inside the dough. Pretz is less sweet and much more reminiscent of party snack mixes or crunchy breadsticks—making it perfect for munching between meals or alongside drinks.

⭐ The Pretz Taste Test

1. Sweet Corn

When I was a kid, sweet corn was my favorite side dish. I totally get how “it’s corn” kid feels—this flavor is buttery, lightly sweet, and somehow nails that roasted corn-on-the-cob taste.

👉 Verdict: Addictive and nostalgic. Reminds me of summer festival food.

2. Sour Cream & Onion

This one feels instantly familiar—like a little condensed Pringle. It’s tangy, savory, and thoroughly dusted with that creamy onion flavoring.

👉 Verdict: If you love Pringles’ sour cream & onion, this flavor will hit the spot as a crunchy stick.

3. Pizza

Maybe I’m sensitive to oregano, but for me this one is very “herb forward.” With cheese, tomato, and herbs baked into the stick, it’s basically a skinny, crunchy pizza breadstick—just without the sauce.

👉 Verdict: Bold, kid-friendly, and instantly recognizable.

Snack Bestie’s Ranking 🏆

• Sweet Corn (most nostalgic)
• Sour Cream & Onion (tasty and familiar)
• Pizza (most fun for kids)

Pretz vs. Pocky — The Showdown

• Pocky: Sweet, creamy, sometimes indulgent.
• Pretz: Savory, snacky, more like chips in stick form.

If you’re craving dessert, head straight for Pocky. If you’re in the mood for salty snacks, Pretz is your best friend. Honestly, keeping both around means you’re prepared for however your snack cravings strike!

Team Sweet or Team Savory

Pretz may not (yet) have Pocky’s worldwide fame, but it truly deserves a spot in your snack stash.

•  Are you #TeamSweet with Pocky or #TeamSavory with Pretz? 

•  Which Pretz flavor would you try first—Sweet Corn, Sour Cream & Onion, or Pizza?

Snack sticks aren’t just food—they’re a whole experience, and Pretz proves savory can be just as fun as sweet. Have you come across similar snack sticks from other countries, or have a favorite of your own? Let me know in the comments below!

Keep tasting, Besties!