Hershey Chocolate Cherry Blossoms Discontinued: A Sweet Farewell to a Classic Canadian Treat

Hershey Canada has officially announced the discontinuation of Cherry Blossom, a beloved candy that has been part of Canadian culture for over a century. This nostalgic treat, consisting of a maraschino cherry encased in milk chocolate with coconut and peanuts, is now being retired, much to the disappointment of its long-time fans. So, what led to the end of this iconic candy production?
The History Behind Cherry Blossom
Initially produced by the Lowney Factory in Montreal in the 1890s, Cherry Blossom was a favourite for Canadians, particularly those who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s. The candy, with its syrupy maraschino cherry center, coconut, and peanuts wrapped in milk chocolate, became a signature Canadian confection. Hershey Canada acquired the rights to the candy in the late 1980s, continuing its production for decades. For many, Cherry Blossom has been more than just a treat; it represents a piece of Canadian history.
Reasons for Discontinuation
The decision to discontinue Cherry Blossom has been attributed to several factors, reflecting the changing landscape of the confectionery market:
- Increased Competition: The candy market has seen a surge in new, innovative products, making it harder for older candies to maintain their hold on consumers.
- Lack of Product Innovation: Cherry Blossom remained largely unchanged over the years. With consumers now seeking more complex flavour profiles and new experiences, the candy was seen as falling behind modern trends.
- Changing Consumer Preferences: Today’s consumers are gravitating towards treats that offer new and surprising combinations, something that Cherry Blossom failed to deliver in recent years.
The Public’s Mixed Reaction
Reactions to the discontinuation of Cherry Blossom have been divided. For many, the candy is a nostalgic favourite, and the news has sparked an outpouring of memories and fond farewells. Some Canadians, especially those who grew up with the candy in the ’70s and ’80s, expressed genuine sadness over its removal. As one TikTok user said, “I’ll miss them and feel a void in my life now.” For these fans, Cherry Blossom was a sweet reminder of simpler times.
However, not everyone shares their sorrow. Many people, particularly those who never developed a taste for it, were quick to celebrate the candy’s departure. Some described it as “gooey” or “the worst chocolate candy” and even went as far as to label it a “sugar bomb from another era.”
Jordan Lebel, a food marketing professor at Concordia University, noted that Cherry Blossom had not evolved to meet modern consumer demands. “Consumers want surprises,” he said, adding that the lack of innovation contributed to the candy’s decline.
Similar Candies You Might Enjoy
For those mourning the loss of Cherry Blossom, there are a few other Canadian candies that might bring back a similar sense of nostalgia:
- Glosette Raisins: A classic favourite, these feature plump raisins coated in smooth milk chocolate.
- Eat More Chocolate Bar: This uniquely Canadian treat, made with dark toffee, peanuts, and chocolate, offers a similar nostalgic vibe.
Fans of the Cherry Blossom can even try making their own homemade version, combining maraschino cherries, chocolate, coconut, and nuts for a delightful DIY treat.
The End of an Era
After more than 130 years, Cherry Blossom will no longer be available on store shelves. While its legacy remains a cherished part of Canada’s candy history, the decision to discontinue the candy marks the end of an era for many Canadians who fondly remember the sweet indulgence. Whether you loved it or hated it, there’s no denying that Cherry Blossom was a unique part of Canadian confectionery culture.
As Hershey Canada moves on to new ventures, we can only wonder: what will be the next iconic candy to capture the hearts and taste buds of Canadians?