As Halloween fast approaches, here’s an ad to remind you that it’s okay to satisfy your sweet tooth next weekend. Throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s, Sugar Information Inc. ran ads to educate people about the dietary benefits of sugar – there is a method to the madness! And according to this 1966 ad, which ran in direct retaliation to the rise of artificial sweeteners, a child like Mary “needs energyless, artificially sweetened foods and beverages, like a turtle needs a seat belt.” Nothing like a solid metaphor to get your point across.

FUN FACT: The Worldwide leader in sugar consumption, the average American consumes 130 pounds of sugar every year. (Source: AlterNet)