Hershey’s Lite syrup was introduced in the 1980s as a lower calorie version of Hershey’s classic chocolate syrup. The lite syrup contains 50% less sugar and calories than the original Hershey’s chocolate syrup.
Quick Answer
Yes, Hershey’s Lite syrup is still being made and sold today. It can be found on store shelves alongside the original Hershey’s chocolate syrup.
When was Hershey’s Lite Syrup Introduced?
Hershey’s Lite syrup first hit store shelves in 1982. It was marketed as having 50% less sugar and calories compared to Hershey’s traditional chocolate syrup. Hershey’s introduced the lite syrup as a healthier alternative for consumers who wanted to enjoy chocolate syrup but with fewer calories and less sugar.
What Makes Hershey’s Lite Syrup Different?
The main difference between Hershey’s Lite syrup and the original is the reduced sugar and calorie content. Here is a comparison of the nutrition facts between the two syrups:
| Syrup | Serving Size | Calories | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Lite | 2 tablespoons (32g) | 60 | 9g |
| Hershey’s Original | 2 tablespoons (32g) | 120 | 18g |
As you can see, the lite syrup has 50% less sugar and calories per serving compared to the original Hershey’s syrup. Lite syrup has 9 grams of sugar and 60 calories per serving, while the original syrup has 18 grams of sugar and 120 calories.
How is the Taste Different?
The lite syrup tastes similar to the original, with a rich chocolate flavor, but it is slightly thinner in texture and viscosity. Some describe the lite version as having a less intense chocolate taste. The lighter consistency comes from the reduction in sugar content. With less sugar, the syrup isn’t as thick or sweet. The overall chocolate flavor is still there, but more muted compared to the full-sugar original syrup.
Where Can You Buy Hershey’s Lite Syrup?
Hershey’s Lite syrup can be found in the pancake syrup aisle at most major grocery stores in the United States. Some of the stores where it is commonly stocked include:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Publix
- Safeway
- Harris Teeter
- Winn Dixie
- Albertsons
- H-E-B
- Meijer
In addition to grocery stores, Hershey’s Lite syrup can also be purchased online through retailers like Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com, and more.
How is Hershey’s Lite Syrup Packaged?
Hershey’s Lite syrup is packaged in a 24 ounce plastic squeeze bottle. The bottle has a black cap and a red and white label featuring the Hershey’s branding. On the front it clearly denotes that it is the ‘Lite’ version. The nutrition facts and ingredients are provided on the back label.
For food service and restaurants, Hershey’s Lite syrup also comes in larger packaging including gallon jugs and bag-in-box pouches.
Does it Need to be Refrigerated?
Yes, Hershey’s recommends refrigerating the Lite syrup after opening for optimal taste and texture. Like the original syrup, the Lite version will thicken up when chilled in the refrigerator. Storing it cold will help lock in the flavor and prevent any separation of the ingredients over time.
An unopened bottle of the syrup can be kept in the pantry. But once opened, it’s best to refrigerate it. The bottle label states “Refrigerate after opening” for quality assurance.
How Long Does it Last When Opened?
Hershey’s Lite syrup will stay fresh for about 3 months after opening when stored properly in the refrigerator. Keeping the bottle tightly closed and chilled at temperatures below 40°F will allow the opened syrup to retain its taste and texture for about 12 weeks.
If the syrup develops any mold, thickening, separation, or fermented smell, it should be discarded at that point even if it has not reached the 3 month mark.
How Should Hershey’s Lite Syrup be Used?
Hershey’s Lite syrup can be used as a lower calorie substitute in any recipe or food that calls for chocolate syrup. Here are some of the most common ways to enjoy Hershey’s Lite syrup:
- On pancakes, waffles, or French toast
- In milkshakes
- As a topping for ice cream sundaes
- In chocolate milk or hot cocoa
- As a sauce for fruit like bananas or strawberries
- Mixed into oatmeal or yogurt
- Stirred into coffee drinks
- As a dip for fruits like apples and pears
- Drizzled over cakes and cupcakes
- In dessert fondues
The lighter syrup can be used in place of regular Hershey’s syrup in any recipe. Because it is less sweet, some people may want to adjust other sugars in the recipe or add a dash of vanilla extract. But otherwise, the lite syrup can be substituted 1:1 in most cases.
What are Some Recipe Ideas Using Hershey’s Lite Syrup?
Here are some delicious ways to cook and bake with Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup:
Skinny Hershey’s Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
– 1 cup nonfat milk
– 1 tbsp Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup
– 1 packet hot chocolate mix
– Whipped cream (optional)
Directions: Heat milk in microwave or stovetop until hot but not boiling. Stir in hot chocolate mix until dissolved. Add Hershey’s Lite syrup and mix well. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie
Ingredients:
– 1 medium banana
– 1 cup almond milk
– 2 tbsp Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup
– 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
– 1 handful ice
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. Taste and add more syrup if desired.
Healthy Chocolate Oatmeal
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup nonfat milk
– 1 tbsp Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup
– 1 tbsp chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp brown sugar
Directions: Cook oats in milk on stovetop or microwave. Once cooked, stir in chocolate syrup. Top with walnuts and brown sugar.
Chocolate Fruit Dip
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– Fruit for dipping like strawberries, bananas, apple slices
Directions: Beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar. Mix in Hershey’s Lite syrup until well combined. Chill for 30 min. Serve with assorted fruit.
Nutrition Information
Hershey’s Lite syrup is a great lower calorie substitution for recipes calling for regular chocolate syrup. Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 2 tablespoon (32g) serving:
| Nutrition Facts | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 25mg |
| Total Carbs | 16g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Added Sugars | 7g |
| Protein | 0g |
As you can see, Hershey’s Lite syrup has 50% less sugar than the original, with just 9 grams per serving. It has 0 grams of fat, 25mg sodium, and 60 calories per serving. The lighter syrup makes it easy to enjoy the chocolate flavor you love without all the extra sugar and calories.
Does Hershey’s Lite Syrup Contain Artificial Sweeteners?
No, Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup does not contain any artificial sweeteners. The reduction in sugar content and calories is achieved by using less sugar overall. The main ingredients in the lite syrup are:
- High fructose corn syrup
- Corn syrup
- Water
- Cocoa processed with alkali
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Salt
- Potassium sorbate
- Sodium benzoate added as preservatives
So while it has less overall sugar than the original, the lite syrup gets its sweetness from corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup rather than from artificial sweeteners.
Is Hershey’s Lite Syrup Gluten-Free?
No, Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup is not certified gluten-free. While the main ingredients are gluten-free, cross-contamination could occur during manufacturing in a shared facility that also processes wheat-based ingredients. So Hershey’s does not claim the lite syrup is gluten-free or safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Is Hershey’s Lite Syrup Vegan?
No, Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup is not considered vegan. While the ingredients do not contain dairy, the company states that the natural and artificial flavors may come from animal sources. So people following a strict vegan diet would want to avoid Hershey’s Lite syrup.
Does Hershey’s Lite Syrup Contain High Fructose Corn Syrup?
Yes, high fructose corn syrup is the first ingredient listed on the Hershey’s Lite syrup nutrition label. A 2 tablespoon serving contains 7 grams of added sugars, most of which comes from the high fructose corn syrup.
While high fructose corn syrup has gotten a bad reputation, it is handled similarly to other sugars by the body. The American Heart Association says that high fructose corn syrup is no worse for you than regular table sugar.1 However, consumers who wish to avoid it for personal reasons should be aware it is present in Hershey’s Lite syrup.
References
1. American Heart Association. “Sugar 101.” https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/sugar-101
Is Hershey’s Lite Syrup Dairy-Free?
Yes, Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup is dairy-free. It does not contain milk, cream, butter, or any other dairy ingredients. The main ingredients are corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, water, cocoa processed with alkali, and natural and artificial flavors. So it is suitable for people following a dairy-free diet.
How Does Hershey’s Lite Syrup Compare to Other Low Calorie Syrups?
Here is a comparison of some popular low calorie chocolate syrup options:
| Syrup Brand | Calories (2 tbsp) | Sugar (2 tbsp) |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Lite | 60 | 9g |
| Hershey’s Sugar Free | 15 | 0g |
| Walden Farms Chocolate Syrup | 15 | 0g |
| Nestle Quick Lite | 40 | 7g |
| Torani Sugar Free Syrup | 0 | 0g |
As you can see, Hershey’s Lite has the lowest calories and sugar compared to regular Hershey’s syrup with 60 calories and 9g sugar per serving. But syrups like Walden Farms, Torani Sugar Free, and Hershey’s Sugar Free offer 0-15 calories and 0g sugar for the lowest calorie options.
Where is Hershey’s Lite Syrup Manufactured?
Hershey’s Lite chocolate syrup is manufactured in the United States. The Hershey Company produces the lite syrup at their manufacturing facilities located in Pennsylvania and other U.S. sites.
Hershey’s operates several manufacturing plants around the country that produce their iconic chocolate products. Their most well known facility is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, which is home to the brand’s headquarters and visitor attractions.
When Did Hershey’s Start Making Chocolate Syrup?
The Hershey Company first began making chocolate syrup over 100 years ago in 1926. Their original chocolate syrup product was called “Hershey’s Syrup.” It was sold in a tin can until 1928 when they switched to glass bottles.
In the early 1900s, milkshakes were becoming popular but chocolate syrup was hard to find outside of soda fountains. Hershey’s saw the opportunity and began mass producing chocolate syrup to make it widely available to consumers and businesses.
Their syrup quickly became popular for chocolate milk, ice cream sundaes, and other desserts. Today, Hershey’s chocolate syrup remains one of the most iconic and recognizable American pantry staples.
Conclusion
In summary, Hershey’s Lite syrup is still being produced today and can be readily found in stores across the U.S. The lite version has 50% less sugar and calories than regular Hershey’s chocolate syrup, giving consumers a lower calorie option. Hershey’s Lite syrup tastes similar to the original with its rich chocolate flavor, but in a thinner, less viscous form. It can be used just like the original syrup and makes a great low calorie substitute in recipes, drinks, desserts, and more. So for those watching their sugar intake, Hershey’s Lite syrup allows you to cut back on calories and sugar without sacrificing that classic chocolate taste.
