finance
Hershey to restore classic Reese's chocolate recipe after backlash
Hershey says it will return mini and seasonal Reese's products to full milk and dark chocolate recipes in 2027 and will boost R&D and ingredient changes after public criticism from the founder's grandson.
Apr 1st 2026 · United States
Insights
- Hershey said it will revert affected Reese's items to classic milk and dark chocolate recipes in 2027.
- The move follows a public letter from Brad Reese, grandson of Reese's founder, who criticized the company for reducing chocolate content in some products.
- Some mini and seasonal items had used a coating with less chocolate as makers experimented amid high cocoa prices and product innovation.
- Hershey also plans to switch to natural colors, make Kit-Kat creamier, and increase research and development funding by 25% next year.
- Reese's Peanut Butter Cups were invented by H.B. Reese and the family business was sold to Hershey in 1963.
Sources
- Hershey says it will shift back to classic recipe for all Reese's products after criticism www.independent.co.uk
- Hershey is moving back to the original recipe for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups after the chocolate’s grandson blasted them last month fortune.com
- Hershey switching back to classic Reese’s recipe after backlash www.independent.co.uk
- Hershey says it will shift back to classic Reese's recipe after backlash www.cbsnews.com