Hershey Reverts to Classic Reese's Recipes

Hershey announced Wednesday that it will return to using classic recipes for all Reese's products beginning next year. This decision comes after Brad Reese, the grandson of Reese's founder H.B. Reese, publicly criticized the company for shifting to cheaper ingredients in some of its products.

The Controversy and Consumer Concerns

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups have traditionally been made with real milk chocolate or dark chocolate combined with peanut butter. However, a portion of Hershey’s and Reese’s products, such as mini Easter eggs, had begun utilizing a coating containing a reduced amount of chocolate.

Grandson's Public Letter

Brad Reese voiced his concerns in a public letter sent to Hershey’s corporate brand manager on Valentine’s Day. He questioned how the company could maintain Reese’s reputation for quality while “quietly replacing the very ingredients that built Reese’s trust in the first place?” Reese shared the letter on his LinkedIn profile.

Hershey's Response and Future Plans

Hershey acknowledged making some recipe adjustments but stated they were attempting to meet evolving consumer demands and innovation. The company plans to transition these affected products back to “their classic milk chocolate and dark chocolate recipes” by 2027.

Additional Product Enhancements

Beyond Reese's, Hershey announced further changes to its product portfolio for next year. These include transitioning to natural colors and enhancing the Kit-Kat recipe for a creamier texture. The company also intends to increase its research and development funding by 25% in the coming year.

Company Statement

“Hershey is committed to making products consumers love, and that means continually reviewing our recipes to meet evolving tastes and preferences,” Hershey stated in a press release.

H.B. Reese's Legacy

H.B. Reese, who previously worked at Hershey for two years, established his own candy company in 1919. He invented Reese's Peanut Butter Cups in 1928, and his company was later sold to Hershey by his six sons in 1963. The Associated Press attempted to reach Brad Reese for further comment.