Hershey announced on Wednesday its decision to revert all Reese’s products to their original recipes starting next year, following criticism from the grandson of the brand’s founder over the use of cheaper ingredients. While Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have traditionally featured real milk or dark chocolate and peanut butter, a small selection of Hershey’s and Reese’s items, such as mini Easter eggs, now contain a coating with reduced chocolate content.
In response to feedback, Hershey plans to transition these products back to their classic milk chocolate and dark chocolate recipes in 2027. The company, headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania, also disclosed upcoming modifications to its confectionery lineup for next year, including a shift to natural colors and an enhancement of Kit Kat’s formulation for a creamier texture. Hershey stated its intent to boost research and development funding by 25% in the coming year.
In a statement, the company emphasized its dedication to crafting products that resonate with consumers by continuously reviewing recipes to align with changing tastes and preferences. The controversy was sparked by Brad Reese, the grandson of the creator of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, who penned a public letter to Hershey’s corporate brand manager on Valentine’s Day, questioning the company’s decision to alter the foundational ingredients of Reese’s.
Hershey acknowledged some adjustments to recipes but clarified that the aim was to meet evolving consumer demands for innovation. Escalating cocoa prices have prompted Hershey and other industry players to explore formulations with reduced chocolate content in recent times. The Associated Press attempted to reach Brad Reese for comment but received no response as of Wednesday.
Brad Reese, the grandson of H.B. Reese, who established Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in 1928 after a brief stint at Hershey before founding his candy enterprise in 1919, raised concerns over the changes. His company was eventually sold to Hershey in 1963 by his six sons.
