The Evolution of Hershey Kisses Packaging: From Plastic to Foil

When it comes to iconic chocolate candies, Hershey Kisses are a household name. One tradition many consumers have believed is that these delectable chocolates were forever encased in a clear plastic wrapper. However, that notion is a misconception. To understand the journey of Hershey Kisses from plastic to foil packaging, we must explore the history of this beloved confection.

The Early Days of Hershey Kisses

Hershey Kisses, a molasses chocolate enrobed in milk chocolate, were first introduced to the American public in 1907. At the time, the candies were not individually wrapped. Instead, they were delivered by truck and handed out to consumers during free samples or were sold in bulk. This innovation allowed Hershey's to offer a more consistent product to a growing customer base.

The Arrival of Plastic Wrapping

It wasn't until the 1950s that Hershey Kisses first began appearing with plastic wrapping. This change was driven by the need to protect the candies from contamination and maintain their freshness longer. The clear plastic wrapper, with its convenient tear tabs, became emblematic of the Hershey Kisses brand identity. Many consumers may have mistakenly believed this packaging style was the original packaging, cementing this misconception in pop culture.

The Transition to Foil Wrapping

By the 1970s, Hershey's recognized the limitations of plastic packaging. Clear plastic was prone to breakage during transit and could be difficult for customers to tear open with precision. This led to a significant shift in packaging materials. Following this period, Hershey Kisses were switched from the plastic wrapper to a more durable and user-friendly foil wrapping system.

Why the Change to Foil?

There were several reasons behind the shift to foil wrapping:

Protection from Contamination: Foil provided better protection against germs and contaminants. Enhanced Shelf Life: The foil wrapping helped maintain the freshness and taste of the chocolate for a longer period. Environmental Friendliness: Foil wrapping is more recyclable and easier to transport compared to plastic. User-Friendly: The easy-to-open foil wrapper offered a more convenient experience for customers.

The Impact on Consumer Perception

For many long-time consumers, the transition from plastic to foil was a significant shift. This change in packaging introduced a new look and feel to the iconic Hershey Kisses. The addition of the cute white tag on top was a nod to heritage while complying with modern packaging standards. Over time, the foil-wrapped variation became almost as iconic as the original plastic wrap.

Conclusion

The packaging of Hershey Kisses has evolved significantly since its introduction. What many consumers believed to be the original plastic wrapper was actually a plastic wrapper that Hershey's used to transition to the more durable and beneficial foil packaging. This change highlights the importance of evolving with the times and meeting the needs of a changing consumer base. Today, the Hershey Kisses packaging not only protects the chocolates but also contributes to a more sustainable future for the brand.