Hershey to Restore Classic Reese's Recipes

Hershey announced on Wednesday that it will revert to its classic recipes for all Reese's products beginning next year. This decision comes after significant criticism regarding recent changes to the popular candy's ingredients.

Backlash from Founder's Grandson

The change was prompted, in part, by a public letter from Brad Reese, the grandson of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups inventor H.B. Reese. Reese questioned Hershey’s commitment to quality after discovering the company was using a coating with less chocolate in some products.

The Core of the Complaint

In his Valentine’s Day letter to Hershey’s corporate brand manager, Brad Reese wrote, “How does The Hershey Co. continue to position Reese’s as its flagship brand…while quietly replacing the very ingredients that built Reese’s trust in the first place?” He shared the letter on his LinkedIn profile, sparking wider discussion.

Ingredient Changes and Future Plans

Traditionally, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups have been made with real milk chocolate or dark chocolate and peanut butter. However, a portion of Hershey’s and Reese’s products, such as mini Easter eggs, had begun using a coating containing less chocolate. Hershey plans to transition these products back to the classic recipes by 2027.

Additional Product Updates

Beyond Reese’s, Hershey announced other planned changes for next year. These include transitioning to natural colors and enhancing the KitKat recipe for a creamier texture. The company also intends to increase its research and development funding by 25%.

Hershey's Response

Hershey stated, “Hershey is committed to making products consumers love and that means continually reviewing our recipes to meet evolving tastes and preferences.” The company acknowledged some recipe changes were made to meet consumer demand and address rising cocoa prices.

H.B. Reese's Legacy

H.B. Reese, who previously worked at Hershey for two years, founded his own candy company in 1919. He invented Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in 1928, and his company was later sold to Hershey in 1963 by his six sons.