<!-- canonical: https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/candy-cocaine-ice-breakers-pacs -->
<!-- robots: noindex -->

# Hershey's Cocaine Packaging
Ice Breakers Pacs

By Alex Covert | Published 2007-12-01 | Lifestyle
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/candy-cocaine-ice-breakers-pacs
References: [spluch.blogspot](http://spluch.blogspot.com/2007/12/hershey-candy-looks-like-drugs.html) & [hersheys](http://www.hersheys.com/icebreakers/pacs/)

[The Hersheys Co.](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-hershey-company-and-nintendo) didn't think this one through. Their Ice Breakers Pacs are packaged similarly to the way illegal drugs such as cocaine, crack, and heroin are distributed - in small, heat-sealed baggies. The [candy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vandal-gummy-bears) is really a dissolvable pouch with a powdered sweetener inside. A Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector says "It glorifies the drug trade." Is this even legal?

**Implications** - This unique trend puts a twist on the packaging that most people associate with the drug world. Though considered daring and may not be highly accepted by an older demographic, this type of packaging greatly appeals to younger, more rebellious individuals. Businesses should develop packaging for their products that pushes boundaries, attracting as many unique customers as possible.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 6.9/10
- Popularity: 99% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Boundary-pushing Packaging:** Packaging that challenges societal norms can attract younger, more rebellious consumers.
- **Reimagining Drug References:** Incorporating elements of drug culture in a non-offensive way can create buzz and intrigue.
- **Controversial Branding:** Bold and daring branding can generate attention and spark conversations.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Confectionery:** Confectionery companies can explore innovative packaging designs to stand out in a crowded market.
- **Beverage:** Beverage brands can experiment with unconventional branding strategies to capture the attention of younger demographics.
- **Fashion:** Fashion brands can utilize controversial branding tactics to attract a young, edgy customer base.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Street Art-Style Gummy Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jolly-rancher-gummies.md)
- [Twist Wrap Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/candy-bar-packaging.md)
- [Halloween-Themed Popping Candies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hilco-treats.md)
- [Chocolate Flavor-Branded Displays](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hersheys-cookies-n-creme.md)
- [Crispy Candy Contracts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/legally-acknowledge-the-crunch.md)
- [Pop Culture Candy Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/album-art-packaging.md)
- [Collaborative Candy-Flavored Drink Mixes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/candy-shop-cocoa.md)
- [Space-Themed Jawbreaker Candies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comet-crusher-jawbreaker.md)
- [Portion-Controlled Candy Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cadbury-duos.md)
