Abstract: A one-piece protective insert comprising a plurality of laterally-aligned chambers each configured to fit a stack of fragile items, such as edible cones. Each chamber is formed by the union of a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a back wall and a top wall. A top flange and side flanges may be connected to the protective insert. In packaging multiple cone stacks, a protective insert is placed in between a first row of cone stacks and a second row of cone stacks, such that the top wall of each chamber of the protective insert is positioned above the open end of the cone stacks in the second row and each of the cone stacks in the second row fits within one of the chambers of the protective insert. This packing method is repeated for all successive rows of cone stacks within the container.