An image circulated on the internet in the days leading up to Halloween 2021 of what seemed like Oscar Mayer’s new seasonal offering: HalloWieners, a package of black colored, black licorice flavored hot dogs.

At first, I didn’t know if I should laugh or gag. As the managing editor of Powder & Bulk Solids, my reporter instinct kicked in and I immediately started looking for some explanation as to how this abomination could be allowed to exist.

For a moment, I started to question reality. Could there really be a market for black licorice flavored hot dogs? Are people not turned off by black-hued meat products? It seemed within the realm of possibility that Oscar Mayer could release something like this. After all, Burger King trialed a “black burger” in the Japanese market a few years back that featured black buns, cheese, and garlic sauce.

A search of the Kraft Heinz Company’s recent press releases (Oscar Mayer's owner) yielded no information. Food industry publications were silent on this horrific version of America’s beloved treat. HalloWieners, it seemed, were a bit of a mystery.

It turns out the image and the idea for HalloWieners is the creation of a parody Instagram account, @BoxofChowder, who creates hilarious fake versions of popular food products.

Mayo with a Twist

A Nice Cold Jimmy Dean Brewski

The Mashup No One Asked For

KF...Uhhh

Energy: Extra Sloppy for Ya

Check out more of these faux food masterpieces on @BoxofChowder's Instagram account.