Hershey’s is one of the most recognizable chocolate brands worldwide, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. However, despite its widespread popularity, Hershey’s is not considered “true” chocolate by many chocolate connoisseurs and experts. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this distinction, exploring the history of Hershey’s, the chocolate-making process, and the ingredients used in their products.
A Brief History of Hershey’s
Milton S. Hershey founded the Lancaster Caramel Company in 1886, which later became the Hershey Chocolate Company. Initially, the company focused on producing caramel candies, but Hershey soon became fascinated with chocolate-making. After attending the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where he discovered a German-made chocolate-making machine, Hershey decided to shift his focus to chocolate production.
In 1900, Hershey sold his caramel company and established the Hershey Chocolate Company in Derry Church, Pennsylvania. The company quickly gained popularity, and its iconic milk chocolate bar became a staple in American candy culture.
The Chocolate-Making Process
To understand why Hershey’s is not considered “true” chocolate, it’s essential to explore the chocolate-making process. Chocolate production involves several steps:
Step 1: Cacao Harvesting
Cacao beans are harvested from the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). The beans are contained in pods, which are typically harvested when they are ripe and have a deep red or yellow color.
Step 2: Fermentation
After harvesting, the cacao beans are fermented to develop their unique flavor and aroma. This process can take anywhere from a few days to a week.
Step 3: Drying
The fermented beans are then dried to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial in preserving the beans and preventing mold growth.
Step 4: Roasting
The dried cacao beans are roasted to enhance their flavor and aroma.
Step 5: Winnowing
The roasted beans are then cracked and separated from their shells, leaving behind cacao nibs.
Step 6: Grinding
The cacao nibs are ground into a fine paste called chocolate liquor. This is the base ingredient for all chocolate products.
Hershey’s Chocolate-Making Process
While Hershey’s follows a similar chocolate-making process, there are some key differences:
Use of Sugar and Milk
Hershey’s adds a significant amount of sugar and milk to their chocolate products. This alters the flavor profile and texture of the chocolate, making it sweeter and creamier.
Use of Cocoa Butter Substitute
Hershey’s uses a cocoa butter substitute called PGPR (polyglycerol polyricinoleate) in some of their products. PGPR is a cheaper alternative to cocoa butter, which is a key ingredient in high-quality chocolate.
Conching Time
Conching is the process of mixing the chocolate liquor with sugar, milk, and other ingredients. Hershey’s conching time is significantly shorter than that of high-end chocolate manufacturers. This can result in a less complex flavor profile.
Ingredients Used in Hershey’s Products
A closer look at the ingredients used in Hershey’s products reveals why they are not considered “true” chocolate:
| Product | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar | Sugar, Milk Chocolate (Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Skim Milk, Lactose, Milkfat, Nonfat Milk, Soy Lecithin, PGPR), Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Milkfat, Lactose, Skim Milk, Salt, Artificial Flavor |
| Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Bar | Sugar, Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Milkfat, Lactose, Skim Milk, Soy Lecithin, PGPR, Salt, Artificial Flavor |
As you can see, Hershey’s products contain a significant amount of sugar, milk, and other ingredients that alter the flavor profile and texture of the chocolate.
What is “True” Chocolate?
So, what constitutes “true” chocolate? The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) defines chocolate as a product that contains:
- At least 35% cocoa solids
- Less than 55% sugar
- No artificial flavorings or preservatives
High-end chocolate manufacturers adhere to these standards, using high-quality cacao beans and minimal ingredients to create complex and nuanced flavor profiles.
Conclusion
While Hershey’s is not considered “true” chocolate by many experts, it remains a beloved brand with a rich history and iconic products. By understanding the chocolate-making process and the ingredients used in Hershey’s products, we can appreciate the differences between mass-produced chocolate and high-end, artisanal chocolate.
Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or a casual fan, there’s no denying the appeal of Hershey’s. However, for those seeking a more authentic chocolate experience, exploring high-end chocolate manufacturers and their products may be a worthwhile journey.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Hershey’s is not considered “true” chocolate due to its use of sugar, milk, and other ingredients that alter the flavor profile and texture of the chocolate. While it may not meet the standards of high-end chocolate manufacturers, Hershey’s remains a beloved brand with a rich history and iconic products.
As consumers become increasingly aware of the ingredients and processes used in food production, the demand for high-quality, artisanal chocolate is on the rise. Whether you’re a fan of Hershey’s or a chocolate connoisseur, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of chocolate and discover new flavors and textures.
What is the main reason Hershey’s is not considered chocolate by some chocolate enthusiasts?
Hershey’s is not considered chocolate by some due to its unique production process and ingredient list. The company uses a sweeter and milder milk formula, which sets it apart from traditional European-style chocolates. This difference in taste and ingredients has led some to question whether Hershey’s should be classified as true chocolate.
The main culprit behind this classification debate is the use of butyric acid and milk fat in Hershey’s products. Butyric acid gives Hershey’s its distinctive tangy flavor, while milk fat enhances the sweetness and creaminess. However, these ingredients are not typically found in traditional chocolate-making processes, leading some to argue that Hershey’s does not meet the standard definition of chocolate.
What is the difference between Hershey’s milk chocolate and European-style milk chocolate?
The primary difference between Hershey’s milk chocolate and European-style milk chocolate lies in their production processes and ingredient lists. European-style milk chocolate typically uses more cocoa and less sugar than Hershey’s, resulting in a richer and more bitter flavor profile. In contrast, Hershey’s milk chocolate has a sweeter and milder taste due to its unique milk formula and higher sugar content.
Another significant difference is the type of milk used in each production process. European-style milk chocolate often uses condensed milk or milk powder, whereas Hershey’s uses a sweeter and more processed milk formula. This difference in milk ingredients contributes to the distinct taste and texture of each type of milk chocolate.
Does Hershey’s use real cocoa in their products?
Yes, Hershey’s does use real cocoa in their products. However, the company also uses a significant amount of sugar and other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of their chocolate. The use of these additional ingredients has led some to question the quality and authenticity of Hershey’s chocolate.
It’s worth noting that Hershey’s sources its cocoa from various countries around the world, including West Africa and South America. The company has faced criticism in the past for its sourcing practices, particularly regarding child labor and sustainability. However, Hershey’s has made efforts in recent years to improve its sourcing practices and ensure that its cocoa is sourced responsibly.
What is the FDA’s definition of chocolate, and does Hershey’s meet this definition?
The FDA defines chocolate as a food that contains a certain percentage of cocoa solids, sugar, and sometimes milk. According to the FDA, milk chocolate must contain at least 10% cocoa solids, 3.39% milk fat, and less than 55% sugar. Hershey’s milk chocolate meets these requirements, but some argue that the company’s use of butyric acid and other ingredients disqualifies it from being considered true chocolate.
It’s worth noting that the FDA’s definition of chocolate is somewhat lenient, allowing for a wide range of ingredients and production processes to be classified as chocolate. While Hershey’s meets the FDA’s definition, some chocolate enthusiasts argue that the company’s products do not meet the more stringent standards of traditional European-style chocolate.
How does Hershey’s production process differ from traditional chocolate-making processes?
Hershey’s production process differs significantly from traditional chocolate-making processes. The company uses a unique milk formula and a higher sugar content than traditional chocolate makers. Additionally, Hershey’s uses a process called “conching,” which involves agitating and aerating the chocolate mixture to develop the flavor and texture.
Traditional chocolate makers, on the other hand, often use a longer conching time and a higher percentage of cocoa solids to develop a richer and more complex flavor profile. Some chocolate enthusiasts argue that Hershey’s production process is more akin to candy making than traditional chocolate making, which is why they do not consider the company’s products to be true chocolate.
Is Hershey’s considered a premium chocolate brand?
No, Hershey’s is not generally considered a premium chocolate brand. While the company is well-known and widely popular, its products are often seen as mass-market and lacking the quality and sophistication of premium chocolate brands.
Premium chocolate brands typically use high-quality ingredients, unique production processes, and careful attention to detail to create complex and nuanced flavor profiles. Hershey’s, on the other hand, is often criticized for its use of lower-quality ingredients and more processed production methods. However, the company has made efforts in recent years to introduce higher-end products and improve its overall quality.
Can Hershey’s be considered a cultural icon in the United States?
Yes, Hershey’s can be considered a cultural icon in the United States. The company has been a beloved and recognizable brand for over a century, and its products are deeply ingrained in American culture. From Hershey’s Kisses to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, the company’s products are a staple of American candy and chocolate.
Hershey’s has also played a significant role in American history, particularly during times of war and economic hardship. The company’s founder, Milton Hershey, was a philanthropist and entrepreneur who built a model town for his employees and established a trust fund for their benefit. Today, Hershey’s remains a beloved and iconic American brand, even if its products are not considered true chocolate by some enthusiasts.