Food Dive reported the development on 2025-11-19. The purchase of the better-for-you puffs and popcorn maker comes as the confectionery giant aims to grow its salty snacks division to 20% of revenue during the next decade.
The report places the news in a wider commercial context. Hershey has completed its acquisition of organic snacks brand LesserEvil, a milestone for the food giant as it builds a bigger presence in salty treats and aims to “lead the future of snacking,” a top executive told Food Dive. The Reese’s maker announced in April that it was purchasing LesserEvil to broaden the company’s salty snacks portfolio.
For the food sector, the practical implications extend beyond the immediate announcement. “It is a very strategic acquisition that we have been waiting with anticipation because it really complements our portfolio of brands,” Veronica Villasenor, president of Hershey’s salty snacks division, said in an interview.
Attention now turns to how companies, customers and regulators respond. Hershey was attracted to LesserEvil for its use of better-for-you ingredients, such as coconut oil and avocado oil. LesserEvil’s popcorn, puffs and rings also are viewed as a healthier snack that’s tasty and fun for kids — providing Hershey further inroads with a younger demographic and their parents.
Food Dive
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