Hershey announced on Wednesday that it will revert all Reese’s products to their original recipes starting next year, following criticism from the grandson of the brand’s founder regarding the use of cheaper ingredients. While Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have traditionally been crafted with genuine milk or dark chocolate and peanut butter, a subset of Hershey’s and Reese’s items, such as mini Easter eggs, have been manufactured with a coating featuring reduced chocolate content.
In response to the feedback, Hershey disclosed that it plans to transition these products back to their “classic milk chocolate and dark chocolate recipes” by 2027. Additionally, the Hershey-based company revealed forthcoming modifications to its confectionery lineup in the coming year, which include a shift to natural colors and a revamp of Kit Kat’s formula to enhance its creaminess. The company also disclosed intentions to boost its research and development funding by 25% in the upcoming year.
In a statement, the company emphasized its dedication to crafting products that resonate with consumers, expressing a commitment to continuously reassessing recipes to align with evolving tastes and preferences. The controversy was sparked by Brad Reese, the grandson of the inventor 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 while positioning it as a symbol of trust and quality.
Acknowledging the recipe adjustments, Hershey clarified that it aimed to cater to consumer preferences 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 out to Brad Reese for comment but received no response as of Wednesday.
Brad Reese is the grandson of H.B. Reese, who briefly worked at Hershey before establishing his confectionery business in 1919. The iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were introduced by H.B. Reese in 1928, with his sons ultimately selling the company to Hershey in 1963.