Grandson of the inventor of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups accuses Hershey of cutting corners

Published: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 7:19 pm

Hershey Faces Criticism Over Recipe Changes to Reese's Products

The Hershey Company is facing criticism from Brad Reese, the grandson of H.B. Reese, the inventor of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Reese has publicly accused Hershey of compromising the quality of the iconic candy brand by substituting ingredients in several products.

In a letter addressed to Hershey's corporate brand manager, Reese expressed concern over the use of compound coatings instead of milk chocolate and peanut butter crème in place of peanut butter in some Reese's products. He highlighted that these changes undermine the "trust, quality, and leadership" that the brand was built upon.

Hershey acknowledged making recipe adjustments to meet consumer demand for innovation and to adapt to high cocoa prices. The company maintains that the original Reese's Peanut Butter Cups recipe remains unchanged, using milk chocolate and peanut butter made in-house. However, Hershey admitted that ingredients vary across the expanded product line to accommodate new shapes, sizes, and innovations.

Reese, however, argues that the changes have gone too far. He cited examples like Reese's Mini Hearts, which use "chocolate candy" and peanut butter crème instead of milk chocolate and peanut butter. He also pointed out that the recipes for Reese's Take5 and Fast Break bars, as well as White Reese's, have been altered over the years. Reese also noted that Reese's Peanut Butter Cups sold in Europe, the United Kingdom, and Ireland differ from the U.S. versions.

Hershey's Chief Financial Officer, Steven Voskuil, stated in a conference call with investors that the company carefully maintains the taste profile of its iconic brands when making formula changes. Voskuil also stated that there has been no consumer impact. However, Reese claims that he frequently hears from consumers who believe the products no longer taste as good as they once did. He emphasized the importance of maintaining quality, referencing a quote from Milton Hershey, the company's founder: "Give them quality, that's the best advertising."

BNN's Perspective:

While innovation is essential for any brand's survival, Hershey must carefully balance cost-saving measures with consumer expectations. The legacy of Reese's is built on a specific taste profile, and any changes that significantly alter that experience risk alienating loyal customers. Hershey should prioritize transparency and ensure that any recipe adjustments are clearly communicated to consumers, allowing them to make informed choices.

Keywords: Reese's, Hershey, Peanut Butter Cups, Recipe Changes, Ingredients, Chocolate, Compound Coatings, Brad Reese, Innovation, Quality, Consumer Demand, Milk Chocolate, Peanut Butter Crème, Milton Hershey

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