Introduction
Hershey Kisses are a well-known and beloved candy worldwide. They are a staple at Valentine’s Day, Halloween, and Christmas. These small, bite-sized chocolates have been around for over a century and have become a household name. But have you ever wondered how many of these candies are produced annually? In this article, we will explore the history, production process, annual production quantity, and other interesting facts about Hershey Kisses.
History of Hershey Kisses
Hershey Kisses were first introduced in 1907 by The Hershey Company, founded by Milton Hershey. The candy’s name comes from the machine that produces it, which makes a "kissing" sound during the manufacturing process. Originally, the candy was hand-wrapped in foil, but in 1921, a machine was invented that could wrap the candy faster and more efficiently. The iconic silver foil with a plume at the top was also introduced during this time.
What are Hershey kisses?
Hershey Kisses are small, bite-sized chocolates that are wrapped in foil. They are made from milk chocolate, which contains sugar, milk, cocoa butter, and chocolate liquor. Hershey’s also produces other varieties of Hershey Kisses, including dark chocolate, white chocolate, and seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice and candy cane. The candy’s shape is similar to that of a teardrop, with a small flat bottom and a pointed top.
Production process
The production process for Hershey Kisses starts with cocoa beans, which are roasted and ground into a paste. This paste is then mixed with sugar and other ingredients to create chocolate. The chocolate is then molded into the tear-drop shape and cooled. Finally, the candies are wrapped in foil and packaged for sale.
Annual production quantity
According to The Hershey Company, they produce over 70 million Hershey Kisses every day. This translates to over 25 billion Hershey Kisses produced annually. The production quantity is highest during the holiday season, with Valentine’s Day being the largest holiday for Hershey Kiss sales.
Factors affecting production
The production of Hershey Kisses can be affected by various factors, including the availability of cocoa beans, weather conditions, and labor issues. The Hershey Company has implemented sustainability practices to ensure a reliable supply chain and reduce their impact on the environment.
Distribution and sales
Hershey Kisses are sold worldwide, with the United States being the largest market. They are available in various packaging sizes, making them a popular choice for snacking, baking, and gift-giving.
Popularity of Hershey kisses
Hershey Kisses are a beloved candy, with a loyal fan base that spans generations. They are often associated with holidays and special occasions, making them a staple for celebrations.
Comparison with other chocolates
Hershey Kisses are often compared to other chocolates, both in terms of taste and production quantity. While other chocolates may have a higher cacao content or be more expensive, Hershey Kisses are a classic and affordable choice.
Sustainability practices
The Hershey Company has implemented various sustainability practices, including responsible sourcing of cocoa beans, reducing their carbon footprint, and supporting local communities. They have also set goals to reduce waste and water usage in their production facilities.
Conclusion
Hershey Kisses are a classic candy that has been enjoyed by millions for over a century. The production quantity is impressive, with over 25 billion candies produced annually. Despite their popularity, The Hershey Company has made a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this beloved candy.
References
- The Hershey Company. "About Hershey’s Kisses." Retrieved from https://www.hersheys.com/kisses/about-kisses.html
- The Hershey Company. "Sustainability." Retrieved from https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/sustainability.html
