Coming up with a product name that will work across multiple countries and dialects of a particular language is something that shouldn't be taken very lightly. While it's probably impossible to get it right all of the time, it's safe to say that if you're going to offend - or at least embarrass - one-third of a population who sees your product's name that you might want to rethink it.
That's what seems to be the case with the new Hershey Elegancita. As the story goes, the product is described as "Cajeta Elegancita," which the term 'cajeta' could be translated as "dulce de leche," if you're from Mexico. If you're not from Mexico, however, the word might be familiar as a particular part of the female anatomy. Oops!
1. I think it's really funny that Hershey's named a candy bar after...you know. At the same time I think it is pretty messed up that Hershey's is targeting only Mexicans. I am mexican but I still don't think it is fair to the other Latinos. It would be one thing if it were a different word. But who would want to eat a candy bar named after a female reproductive part? Hershey's messed up and they need to think next time the decide to name a candy in a different language. They need to remember that not all Spanish is the same and there are different dialects. This whole thing is really funny though.
Posted at 4:19PM on Jun 16th 2005 by Shorty