Concerns have surfaced regarding changes in Reese's candy products, with some consumers and even the grandson of the company's founder expressing dissatisfaction. Reports suggest that ingredient alterations and the potential use of substitutes for traditional components are affecting the taste and quality of familiar treats. These observations have led to public questioning of the company's manufacturing practices and ingredient sourcing.
Background on Consumer Complaints and Ingredient Discussions
Reports indicate that a number of Reese's products may no longer use milk chocolate as originally formulated.
Brad Reese, grandson of the inventor of the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, has publicly stated his disapproval of perceived quality decline in the brand's offerings. He notes that consumers have expressed dissatisfaction with the taste of current Reese's products when compared to past experiences.
Reese has mentioned that products such as Take5 and Fast Break bars have transitioned from milk chocolate to other coatings in recent years.
He has described the taste of some altered products as "inedible," a sentiment that he finds particularly disheartening given his family's connection to the brand.
A private chef has suggested that certain ingredient substitutions might be occurring, pointing to changes on product labels and the potential use of additives.
This chef theorizes that an additive derived from castor oil might be contributing to a "waxy mouthfeel" that some consumers have reported.
Another suggestion is the substitution of cocoa butter with an additive referred to as PRPG.
Changes in Product Lines and Consumer Perception
While some products are reportedly undergoing changes, others remain unaffected.
Reese's Pieces have been made dairy-free, with dextrose and milk being removed from the ingredient list. New ingredients were not added to replace them.
The company is introducing new product lines, but these are not intended to replace the classic Reese's cups.
The specific type of chocolate used can vary between different Reese's products, such as Reese's Pieces versus Reese's cups.
Cadmium Levels and Product Testing
Independent testing has identified the presence of certain substances in Reese's products.
A lab report from September 2024 indicated that Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (Milk Chocolate/Classic Flavor) tested positive for an unsafe level of cadmium.
Cadmium is a heavy metal that can be harmful to human health. Action levels for such substances are relevant regardless of the product's serving size.
Expert and Public Reaction
Public figures and industry observers have weighed in on the reported changes.
Brad Reese has expressed embarrassment and believes Hershey has "crossed a line" with the quality of these ingredient changes.
One analysis, generated by Glideslope's AI engine, notes that high cocoa prices may be a factor influencing Hershey's recipe adjustments.
Evidence Summary
Brad Reese's Testimony: He states that consumers are dissatisfied with the taste of current Reese's products and that specific bars like Take5 and Fast Break have changed coatings. He believes the quality has deteriorated.
Private Chef's Observations: A chef identified a potential substitute for cocoa butter (PRPG) and a sweetener from castor oil, linking these to a "waxy mouthfeel."
Reese's Pieces Ingredient Change: The product is now dairy-free, with dextrose and milk removed.
Lab Report (Oct 2024): Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (Milk Chocolate/Classic Flavor) tested positive for an unsafe level of cadmium.
AI Analysis (Glideslope): Suggested high cocoa prices may be driving recipe changes by Hershey.
Unanswered Questions and Further Investigation
Several aspects of these reports warrant further clarification.
The exact nature and extent of ingredient substitutions across all Reese's product lines remain unclear.
What specific additives, if any, are being used to replace cocoa butter or other traditional ingredients?
What is Hershey's official response to the accusations of diminished quality and the specific claims made by Brad Reese?
The long-term health implications of reported cadmium levels in Reese's products require ongoing monitoring and analysis.
Conclusion
The available information indicates that Reese's products are currently the subject of significant consumer and familial scrutiny regarding ingredient changes and perceived quality degradation. Reports from Brad Reese and a private chef highlight concerns about taste alteration and the potential use of ingredient substitutes. Concurrently, independent testing has flagged the presence of cadmium in Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. While some changes, such as the dairy-free formulation of Reese's Pieces, are documented, the full scope of alterations and their impact on the brand's integrity are still being evaluated.
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Sources Used:
Grandson of Reese's Creator Accuses Hershey of Diminishing Brand Quality with Ingredient Changes - SSBCrack News: Reports on Brad Reese's dissatisfaction with taste and quality, and his mention of specific product ingredient changes.🔗 https://news.ssbcrack.com/grandson-of-reeses-creator-accuses-hershey-of-diminishing-brand-quality-with-ingredient-changes/
A private chef noticed a subtle two-word change on the Reese’s label, what she found means you're not actually eating what you think you are | Attack of the Fanboy: Discusses potential ingredient substitutions, including PRPG for cocoa butter and castor oil-based sweeteners, and their effect on mouthfeel.🔗 https://attackofthefanboy.com/social-media/a-private-chef-noticed-a-subtle-two-word-change-on-the-reeses-label-what-she-found-means-youre-not-actually-eating-what-you-think-you-are/
Some Reese’s Treats Drop the Milk Chocolate. Mr. Reese Disapproves. - Glideslope.ai: Mentions high cocoa prices as a possible reason for recipe changes by Hershey and notes Brad Reese's embarrassment.🔗 http://glideslope.ai/post/d5zaze4
Reese’s Pieces Go Dairy-Free, But You May Still Want to Avoid the Hershey’s Classic - vegnews.com: Confirms Reese's Pieces are now dairy-free by removing dextrose and milk.🔗 https://vegnews.com/reeses-pieces-dairy-free-hershey
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (Milk Chocolate/Classic Flavor) test positive for an unsafe level of Cadmium — September 2024 Lab Report: Reports on laboratory findings of an unsafe level of cadmium in specific Reese's products.🔗 https://tamararubin.com/2024/09/reeses-peanut-butter-cups-milk-chocolate-classic-flavor-test-positive-for-an-unsafe-level-of-cadmium-september-2024-lab-report/
