Hershey says GLP-1s are driving higher gum and mint sales

Packages of Ice Breakers spearmint mints Mints are displayed at a Costco Wholesale store on April 27, 2025 in San Diego, California. Kevin Carter | Hershey is seeing higher sales for its mints and gum — thanks to the growing use of GLP-1 drugs. "We've also seen strong demand for gum and mints, as the category benefits from functional snacking tailwinds, including GLP-1 adoption," CEO Kirk Tanner said in pre-recorded remarks ahead of the company's earnings conference call Thursday. "Retails sales for our third-largest confection brand, Ice Breakers, increased over 8% in the quarter." While Tanner didn't specify why the increasing usage of GLP-1 agonists fueled mint and gum sales, some people who take medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro report experiencing halitosis, or bad breath. However, so-called Ozempic breath is not an official listed side effect for the medication. Dental experts have linked the drugs to dry mouth, likely caused by dehydration and changes to saliva caused by the medication. Hershey isn't the only company known for its sweet treats that is reporting a surprising lift in sales from GLP-1 users. Swiss chocolatier Lindt & Spruengli said in March that U.S. sales of premium chocolate rose faster last year among people using the medication than those who weren't. …