Hershey to stop producing Pacs

Hershey Co., the largest U.S. candy maker, said it would stop making Ice Breakers Pacs mints because law enforcement officials say the candy can be mistaken for illegal drugs.

“Some community and law enforcement leaders have expressed concern about the shape of the pouch and xylitol form and the possibility that it could be mistaken for illicit items,” Hershey Chief Executive David West said during a conference call with analysts and investors.

“We are sensitive to these viewpoints and thus have made the decision that we will no longer manufacture Ice Breakers Pacs.”

Ice Breakers Pacs are breath strips in a pouch filled with powdered xylitol. They were introduced by the Hershey, Pa.-based company late in the fourth quarter. Authorities say the pouches resemble those used by drug peddlers to package cocaine.