governmental regulators needed to be concerned about genetically engineered (GE) products. Yet the massive recall of StarLink GE corn - which contaminated more than 300 products - will cost over a billion dollars in direct costs to companies all along the food commodity chain line. Brand name damage will account for additional untold costs.

The implications for Hershey are highly significant. Our company uses significant amounts of milk, corn and soy products - these products are among the most heavily impacted ingredients from genetically engineered food crops. Hershey is clearly exposed to unnecessary risks.

Highlighting our concerns are:

• The company’s exposure to unnecessary reputational and financial risks from use of a product that provides no financial or nutritional benefit.

• Scientific studies which identify potential environmental and public health risks of GE foods.

• The lack of long-term safety testing of these products and gaps in regulatory oversight.

• The growing public controversy and backlash over GE food and crops.

• The overwhelming support for labeling of GE products by US consumers and international governments.

We do not believe our company should face risk in allowing inadequately tested and poorly regulated products to reach millions of Americans. Nor do we feel it should risk its foreign sales as international markets are soundly rejecting GE products.

Consequently, we are asking fellow investors to support this resolution – both as a practical business strategy in responding to serious financial, legal and reputational risks; and as a means of sending a clear message to management that it is accountable to shareholders. Please vote FOR proposal # 3.