Hershey Company Recipe Changes by 2027
The Hershey Company is planning to revise some of its recipes by 2027 after the grandson of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups’ inventor accused them of “silently substituting” ingredients.
This initiative, affecting less than 3 percent of Reese’s lineup, aims to remove specific formula coatings and revert to the original milk and dark chocolates that people recognize and cherish, according to reports.
A spokesperson for Hershey mentioned that the classic recipes for Hershey’s chocolate bars and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have largely remained unchanged.
Moreover, Hershey is also making adjustments to its Kit Kat bars. The company is reportedly increasing its investment in research and development by 25%. This funding will target advancements in nutritional science and technology across its candy and snack brands.
This announcement follows a statement from Brad Reese, the grandson of H.B. Reese, who criticized the company in February for replacing the core ingredients of his grandfather’s creations.
In an open letter to Hershey, he expressed concern that Reese’s identity, built on the foundation of milk chocolate and peanut butter, is being altered through the introduction of composite coatings and peanut butter-like creams in various products. He questioned how Hershey can maintain the brand’s reputation for trust and quality while making these changes.
H.B. Reese, born in Frosty Hill, Pennsylvania, initially worked at one of Milton Hershey’s dairy farms before establishing his own candy business, eventually founding the H.B. Reese Candy Company. Despite their proximity, Reese Candy was never a competitor to Hershey but rather one of its largest customers.
Throughout its history, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup has remained a favorite, achieving significant success during the 1940s and 1950s, particularly as H.B. focused on this standout product amid rising sugar prices during World War II.
Additionally, Hershey plans to phase out artificial colors from its products by the end of 2027.
