Peanut butter reigns as America's top condiment—but Reese's recipe feud divides fans
Peanut butter reigns as America's top condiment—but Reese's recipe feud divides fans
Peanut butter reigns as America's top condiment—but Reese's recipe feud divides fans
Peanut butter remains a firm favourite among the Americans, with a new survey revealing its top spot as the nation's most-loved condiment. But not everyone is happy with how it's being used—especially when it comes to a beloved chocolate treat. Brad Reese, grandson of the inventor of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, has publicly criticised Hershey for what he claims is a damaging change to the classic recipe.
The debate over condiments doesn't stop there. From ketchup to hot sauce, Americans have strong opinions about what they spread, dip, and carry with them every day.
A 2026 survey found that 44% of US adults 'love' peanut butter, placing it above all other condiments. Another 35% said they 'like' it, cementing its status as a kitchen staple. Meanwhile, ketchup proved the most widely owned, with 84% of households keeping a bottle, and 75% of people viewing it positively. Hot sauce, however, split opinions sharply: 28% of Americans adore it, while 27% can't stand it.
When it comes to on-the-go snacks, peanut butter still holds its own. Around 17% of Americans who carry condiments outside the home pack peanut butter—about 4% of all US adults. Ketchup leads this category at 40%, followed by hot sauce at 22%. Honey and chocolate sauce also ranked high, with 40% and 33% of people saying they 'love' them, respectively.
The controversy over Reese's Peanut Butter Cups began in 2023, when Brad Reese accused Hershey of replacing traditional butter with a 'butter crème' filling. He called the change 'very devastating' and claimed the new version was 'not edible.' Despite his complaints, Hershey has never publicly confirmed any recipe adjustments. Independent lab tests in 2024 showed the butter content remained steady at 50-52% by weight. As of 2026, the company has made no official statements on the matter.
Peanut butter stays a dominant force in American food preferences, both at home and on the move. The ongoing dispute over Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, however, highlights how even small perceived changes can spark strong reactions. With no confirmation from Hershey and test results showing no major shifts, the debate continues—leaving fans to decide for themselves whether their favourite treat still tastes the same.
Britain's generational divide in cooking skills and meal habits revealed
From jacket potatoes to scrambled eggs, Britain's kitchens tell a story of confidence—and repetition. Why do Gen Z and millennials think they're better cooks?
Fort Worth's dining renaissance blends bold flavors and timeless classics
A food critic's decades-long watch reveals Fort Worth's transformation—where hidden alleys and historic haunts now serve some of Texas' most exciting bites. Ready to taste the revival?
How 18th-Century Maryland's Food Divided the Elite and the Enslaved
Thomas Jefferson dined on Parmesan ice cream while enslaved cooks introduced okra and peppers. One state's kitchen tells America's divided culinary story.
Estonia's domestic violence crisis exposes deadly system flaws after tragic deaths
A man's violent rampage ended in two deaths—and left a survivor fighting for life. Now, Estonia faces hard questions about how to stop the cycle of abuse before it turns deadly.