Hershey plans major Reese’s update after founder’s grandson speaks out

by

Starting in 2027, Hershey’s plans to go back to using the original recipes for all Reese’s products. This decision comes after customers complained that some items contained lower-quality, less expensive ingredients.

This change follows a public statement from Brad Reese, grandson of Reese’s founder, who criticized the company for altering ingredients in some of its products. In a recent letter, he expressed worry about the future of the brand and whether it was upholding the quality that made it famous.

Hershey has admitted that while standard Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are still made with real milk or dark chocolate, some of their smaller, limited-edition products – like mini Easter eggs – use coatings that contain less chocolate.

Hershey confirms recipe shift after criticism

Starting next year, Hershey is bringing back its original recipes for classic milk chocolate and dark chocolate bars.

The company announced it’s constantly updating its products to keep up with what consumers want. According to a statement, Hershey is dedicated to creating products people enjoy, and that includes regularly checking and improving recipes to match changing tastes.

Brad Reese shared his concerns in a letter sent to Hershey’s on Valentine’s Day, and then posted it on LinkedIn.

I was reading this article, and it made me think – how does Hershey keep Reese’s as their top product, the one everyone trusts for being good quality, while they’re secretly changing what makes Reese’s, well, Reese’s? It’s the chocolate and peanut butter combo that got us all hooked in the first place, so it’s kinda weird they’re messing with that.

Hershey admitted they’ve tweaked some recipes lately, explaining that shifts in what consumers want and the increasing cost of cocoa were the reasons why.

Alongside the Reese’s update, Hershey said it plans broader changes across its product portfolio.

The company is moving towards using more natural colors in its candies and is improving the Kit Kat recipe for a smoother, creamier taste. They also intend to invest 25% more in research and development next year.

Read More

2026-04-01 23:18