A Viral Baby Pygmy Hippo Inspired M&S Food's Hiccup the Hippo Easter Treat
Laura McQuarrie — February 19, 2026 — Lifestyle
References: marksandspencer & marksandspencer
From classic hollow bunnies to chicks and eggs, animal-shaped Easter chocolates appear on shelves in the same forms year after year, and for the 2026 season, M&S Food is shaking up tradition with Hiccup the Hippo. This animal Easter egg is made out of milk chocolate, inspired by the viral baby pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, that captured hearts worldwide. This hippo-shaped hollow milk chocolate captures every detail, from the animal's glossy skin, fat neck and body rolls to pale pink cheeks.
Alongside Hiccup the Hippo, M&S Food is introducing a fun lineup of animal Easter eggs for kids that includes Shaggy the Shetland pony, Toby the T-Rex, Ralph the Cavapoo, and Sunny the Sloth.
Alongside Hiccup the Hippo, M&S Food is introducing a fun lineup of animal Easter eggs for kids that includes Shaggy the Shetland pony, Toby the T-Rex, Ralph the Cavapoo, and Sunny the Sloth.
Trend Themes
1. Novelty Animal-shaped Confections - The resurgence of intricately molded animal chocolates signals potential for product differentiation through unexpected forms that drive seasonal excitement and collectibility.
2. Social-media-inspired Product Design - Viral animal moments translating into physical products demonstrates how online cultural phenomena can rapidly influence mainstream assortment and limited-edition launches.
3. Character-led Seasonal Assortments - Branded characters with distinct personalities and backstories create opportunities for deeper emotional connection and expanded SKUs beyond a single seasonal item.
Industry Implications
1. Confectionery and Retail - Retailers and chocolatiers stand to benefit from investing in sculptural production techniques and themed ranges that command premium pricing and impulse purchase behavior.
2. Licensing and Merchandising - Licensors and merchandisers can capitalize on the crossover between viral talent and product collaborations that extend IP into edible goods and collectible tie-ins.
3. Food Packaging and Experience - Packaging designers and experiential food brands may influence repeat buying by creating reveal moments, preservation-focused formats, and display-forward presentation for novelty confections.
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