In a surprising shake-up bound to leave Colonel Sanders aficionados raising their eyebrows, KFC is waving goodbye to some classic favorites.

The fast-food titan is embarking on a mission to revamp its menus, and in the process, bidding adieu to five staples – the iconic Kentucky fried chicken wings, the fiery Nashville hot sauce, the refreshing strawberry lemonade, the irresistible chocolate chip cookies, and the beloved popcorn chicken, as per a report by USA Today.

This strategic overhaul is all part of KFC’s grand plan to streamline its extensive menu. KFC U.S. Director Brittany Wilson revealed to USA Today that not every joint featured these items, and after meticulous scrutiny of sales data, these were the chosen casualties to make room for a new culinary direction.

Die-hard popcorn chicken fans, fret not. The only victim in this saga is the Popcorn Chicken Combo, a combo deal with a petite popcorn chicken, small fries, and a drink. KFC promises that the miniature flavor bombs will still be gracing taste buds, notably in the KFC Famous Bowls.

In the wake of these farewells, KFC is diving into uncharted territory with trials of fresh offerings, spotlighting the tantalizing chicken wraps. One variant flaunts a chicken tender snugly wrapped in a flour tortilla with pickles and mayo, while the other comes adorned with coleslaw, pickles, and a dash of “spicy sauce.”

This gastronomic evolution kicked off back in November, and come next month, locating any of these ousted items will be akin to a culinary scavenger hunt. KFC is on a mission, and according to intel from Yahoo, there’s no stopping them; they’re geared up to unleash even more experimental delights come spring.

Behind the scenes, steering this shift is none other than Yum! Brands, the umbrella company that not only commands KFC but also holds the reins of Taco Bell, The Habit Burger Grill, Pizza Hut, and a slew of other renowned brands.

While the departure of these cherished classics might stir nostalgia, KFC is poised to captivate taste buds with an exciting array of novel creations. The culinary landscape is evolving, and KFC is at the forefront, ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that promises to redefine the fast-food experience. So, buckle up, KFC enthusiasts, because the Colonel’s kitchen is cooking up a storm, and the next chapter in finger-lickin’ goodness is about to unfold.