Hershey to Restore Classic Chocolate Recipes

Hershey announced on March 31, 2026, that it will revert to using “classic milk and dark chocolate recipes” across its product line. This decision involves replacing a compound chocolate coating currently used in select items.

Impact on Reese's and Hershey's Products

Limited Product Changes

While a significant change for the company, Hershey anticipates the ingredient adjustments will affect a relatively small portion of its portfolio. Less than 3% of Reese’s products and less than 1% of the overall Hershey’s lineup will be impacted. The company confirmed that its original Hershey’s chocolate bar and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups already utilize real chocolate and will remain unchanged.

Specific Products Affected

Products like Reese’s Fast Break candy bars, Reese’s mini cups, and special shapes are among those slated to receive the reformulated recipes. Hershey stated this move is part of aligning its portfolio with the core values of the brand.

Leadership and Family Criticism

New Leadership's Role

The decision to revert to classic recipes was made as Hershey’s new leadership team, led by CEO Kirk Tanner who assumed the role last summer, came together. This change occurred before Brad Reese, grandson of Reese’s founder H.B. Reese, publicly criticized the company’s ingredient choices.

Brad Reese's Concerns

Brad Reese launched a viral campaign expressing his disappointment with Hershey’s use of cheaper compound coatings made from vegetable oil and peanut-butter flavored cremes instead of real ingredients. “I can’t just let it go. They’re lowering the quality of ingredients, charging the same price and probably giving you a smaller product size,” Reese told The Post in February. “I’m really embarrassed as a member of the Reese family.” He also expressed distrust in the company’s claims about the limited scope of the changes, calling them “total bunk.”

Further Investments and Commitments

Increased R&D Spending

Hershey has increased its research-and-development investments by 25%, demonstrating a commitment to product quality and consumer preferences. The company stated it is “committed to making products consumers love and that means continually reviewing our recipes to meet evolving tastes and preferences.”

Kit Kat and Dye Removal

During an investor conference, Hershey also announced a reformulation of its Kit Kat recipe for a “creamier-tasting chocolate,” while confirming it will continue to use real milk and dark chocolate. Furthermore, the company is on track to remove all artificial dyes from its products by the end of 2027, utilizing natural dyes for colorful candies like Reese’s Pieces and Jolly Ranchers.