Lots of people in the US have a sweet tooth. But, some would rather those indulgences be healthier than they currently are. At least 54% of the Gen Z population is cutting animal-based products from their diets. Which is why Hershey announced they’ll be releasing a line of vegan Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Realizing that there’s a significant lack of vegan chocolates on the market, Reese’s is getting a plant-based option for those looking to feel better about buying a chocolatey treat.
The plant-based chocolate is made with oat milk instead of cow’s, meaning you can leave your dairy industry worries at home. These new planet-based confections will be available this month. They’ll be the first of Hershey plant-based treats to be sold nationally. Following closely behind will be a plant-based version of Hershey’s Sea Salt and Almond bar. That’s due to be released in April.
Though, as with any confection, you might want to keep an eye on the calories. Just because it’s the vegan option doesn’t mean it’s necessarily healthier. It’s still candy after all. Despite the more planet-friendly option, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are 210 calories. They’re also about a dollar more expensive than the original due to different ingredients. But it’s still a welcome alternative.
The US has been relatively behind when it comes to vegan options for chocolate. Kit-Kat has sold their Kit-Kat V bars in Europe since 2021. And Cadbury has long-had a vegan chocolate bar sold in the UK. So this is filling a bit of a gap in the confectionary market here in the US. Especially given that plant-based options are becoming increasingly more popular.
