The Official Launch and Timing
The announcement for the new plant-based Reese's product came on March 7, 2023, with the cups hitting shelves nationwide later that same month. This launch was a response to growing consumer interest in plant-based alternatives and followed earlier testing in select markets. Hershey's also released a Plant Based Extra Creamy with Almonds and Sea Salt bar in April 2023.
This release brought a widely available vegan chocolate option to the U.S. market and was a significant development for the Reese's brand. The new oat-based formula was developed to mimic the texture of conventional chocolate through extensive research.
Comparing Plant-Based vs. Original Reese's
The key difference between the two versions is the chocolate base; the plant-based option uses oat and rice flour instead of dairy milk. While the peanut butter is the same, the chocolate's flavor and texture differ.
| Feature | Plant-Based Reese's | Original Reese's |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Base | Oat flour and rice flour | Dairy milk chocolate |
| Dietary Suitability | Vegan, Dairy-Free | Contains Dairy |
| Texture | Described as slightly less creamy, more distinctive chocolate flavor | Rich and creamy milk chocolate |
| Taste | Peanut butter taste may be more prominent due to chocolate difference | Balanced chocolate and peanut butter flavor |
| Ingredients | Oat flour, rice flour, cocoa butter | Milk, milkfat, lactose [Product label] |
| Availability | Available nationwide since March 2023 | Widely available for decades |
| Price | Generally priced higher than the original version | Standard pricing |
The Rise of Plant-Based Confections
Hershey's entry into the plant-based market aligns with a broader industry trend driven by consumer demand for vegan and dairy-free options due to health, ethical, and environmental reasons. Other companies like Nestlé and Cadbury have also introduced vegan options in various markets. Hershey's success in this area will likely encourage further innovation in dairy-free alternatives.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Key ingredients in the plant-based Reese's include sugar, peanuts, cocoa butter, oat flour, and rice flour. These cups are typically more expensive than the original and have a similar calorie count. They contain peanuts and soy.
Conclusion: A Significant Step for Mainstream Vegan Options
The March 2023 launch of plant-based Reese's was a major step for the vegan market and confectionery industry, demonstrating a commitment to plant-based alternatives. This move not only expands consumer choices but also encourages other brands to cater to changing dietary preferences, contributing to the growth of the plant-based sector. This reflects an industry shift towards more inclusive and ethical food production.
Hershey's Plant-Based Products: A Timeline
- 2021: Hershey's tests an oat-based chocolate bar, Hershey's Oat Made, in select markets.
- Early 2023: Announcement of upcoming national plant-based product line.
- March 2023: Reese's Plant Based Peanut Butter Cups are released nationwide.
- April 2023: Hershey's Plant Based Extra Creamy with Almonds and Sea Salt bar is launched.
- Ongoing: These products become part of Hershey's 'better-for-you' strategy.
This timeline shows Hershey's progression into the plant-based category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in plant-based Reese's? Plant-based Reese's use an oat-based chocolate confection with ingredients like oat flour and rice flour, along with sugar, peanuts, and cocoa butter.
Is the plant-based Reese's exactly the same taste as the original? No, the taste is different due to the oat-based chocolate, which some find less creamy than the original milk chocolate.
Where can I buy plant-based Reese's? They are available nationwide at major retailers like Target and Walmart, and online through Amazon and Hersheyland's website.
Why did Hershey's release a plant-based version? To meet growing consumer demand for dairy-free and vegan options, particularly among younger consumers.
Do plant-based Reese's cost more than the original? Yes, they are generally priced higher than the original cups.
Are plant-based Reese's healthier than the original? While dairy-free, they have a similar calorie count and are not necessarily a low-calorie option.
What other plant-based products has Hershey's released? Hershey's also launched a Plant Based Extra Creamy with Almonds and Sea Salt bar in April 2023.
Does plant-based Reese's contain any allergens besides peanuts? Yes, they also contain soy.
Were there any other vegan products from Hershey's before this? Hershey's tested an oat-based chocolate bar in select markets in 2021.
What is the chocolate made of if not milk? The chocolate confection uses oat flour and rice flour for creaminess without dairy.
How does the plant-based Reese's contribute to the wider vegan market? It makes dairy-free options more accessible and visible to a broader audience, helping to grow the plant-based food sector.
