Trick or treat? Well, if you ask any student at BPHS they’d most likely say the latter. Not only in Bethel Park but all around the world, Halloween candy is a crucial part of the holiday to some. Just in 2023 alone, the United States spent $3.6 billion on Halloween candy. But, when BPHS students had to narrow it down to their favorites, this is what they had to say.
5. Hershey Bars
Often referred to as “The Great American Chocolate Bar,” it’s no surprise that Hershey’s made it on the list. Established in 1900 by Milton Hershey, the Hershey Bar became the first successful product from the Lancaster Caramel Company, founded in 1886. While having many variations during its century in the spotlight, Hershey Bars have always been a reliable option to treat yourself for now and years to come.
4. Candy Corn
It’d be usually hard to follow up with a heavy hitter like Hershey, but there’s no better option to step up to the challenge than a Halloween classic in Candy Corn. While having divided opinions around it during its history, Candy Corn has been able to maintain its status as a top money maker. As of 2016, 35 million pounds of Candy Corn was produced adding to 9 billion pieces.
3. Twix Bars
Enter the newest bar in this list in the Twix bar. Initially named Raider when first introduced in the United Kingdom in 1967, Twix has only skyrocketed in popularity since then. A staggering 161 million are sold a year while also generating $170 million in 2023. Doesn’t matter whether you go left or right, Twix is on top.
2. Kit Kat Bars
If you don’t want to go left or right though, you can have a break with a Kit Kat bar. Established in 1935, Kit Kats have slowly climbed their way into American’s hearts as not only a Halloween favorite but year-round. Selling over 5 billion bars globally in 2022, Kit Kat is a powerhouse in the candy industry for now and years to come.
1. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
There were tough competitors, but one stood above them all. Reesee’s Cups take the top spot on the list with a dominant 18 votes making up 40% of the votes. Though not surprising when you take a look at the statistics. In 2023, Reese’s was the top candy brand in the world with $3.1 billion in annual sales. Started by H.B. Reese in 1928 following his departure from Hershey, the peanut butter cup was only one product idea in a long list of Reese. However, with the success of the product, Reese discontinued all the other lines to focus on his money maker. In the process turning it into potentially the most successful chocolate product of all time.