Reese’s Wrappers May Have Flouted Federal Law
Reese’s Wrappers May Have Flouted Federal Law Hershey’s, the candy giant known for its irresistible Reese’s peanut butter cups, might be in a bit of a sticky situation, all thanks to Cuppy, the lovable Reese’s mascot.
The company recently rolled out a $25,000 sweepstakes dubbed “Reese’s University,” making it sound like a sweet deal. But this sugary promotion has stirred up some commotion, and it’s not just because we can’t resist those delightful peanut butter cups.
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What’s the Fuss About Reese’s Sweepstakes?
Let’s dive right into it: “No purchase necessary.” You’ve probably heard this phrase more times than you’ve unwrapped a chocolate bar. It’s no accident; it’s the law! State and federal regulations govern how sweepstakes work, and they mandate that you should be able to participate without spending a dime.
If you had to cough up cash to enter, it’d be considered a lottery, and lotteries come with their own set of rules and red tape. So, what’s the hitch with Reese’s University? The issue here is that the packaging fails to shout it from the candy aisle: “You don’t need to buy those Reese’s cups to join the fun!”
As seen in the pic above, the label gives you a cryptic clue, saying, “See details inside.” If you’re like me, you might have gone on a wild wrapper hunt, only to find nada about this no-purchase-necessary rule.
The Associated Press spilled the cocoa beans and revealed that the critical fine print containing this lifesaving info is hidden within the wrapper, after you’ve committed to your peanut butter cup purchase. That’s like telling you about the sprinkles after you’ve already devoured the ice cream – not cool.
A former Massachusetts assistant attorney general turned consumer advocate, Edgar Dworsky, spotted this snafu. He’s the brains behind Consumer World, and he’s not amused. “You never have to pay to play,” Dworsky sternly stated to the AP. He’s got a point, you know. His verdict: “All these packages should be recalled.” Ouch, Hershey.
Hershey’s Sweet Defense Reese
In its defense, Hershey said, “Wait, folks, some of our packages have QR codes on the outside that link you to the rules.” Well, that’s nifty, but the package of Reese’s cups I snagged from my neighborhood Walgreens seemed to have missed the QR code memo.
Hershey also claimed that their in-store displays have the rulebook in a shorter, condensed form. But my keen investigative skills (okay, maybe just a glance) failed to spot any such display at my local Walgreens.
A Little Extra Sweetness, Anyone Reese?
Dworsky’s concern is that this packaging ploy might trick you into buying Reese’s cups to enter, when, in reality, you could’ve waltzed right in for free. So, if you’re reaching for those Reese’s with dollar signs in your eyes, dreaming of that $25,000 windfall, take a moment to pause.
Buying and devouring them won’t make Lady Luck any more smitten with you, but hey, indulging in some peanut butter cups isn’t the worst way to spend your time, right?
