US confectionery group Hershey Foods is to launch sugar-free versions of its Hershey's and Reese's brands, according to a report from Reuters.
The new lines are expected to begin shipping this month, and mark Hershey's first foray into the sugar-free chocolate sector. The company said it wanted to create products which could be enjoyed by everyone, including people with dietary restrictions such as diabetics.
The Reuters report claims that the company is hoping for sales of $40 million from the sugar-free lines in the first year alone.
Instead of sugar, the chocolates will be made using lactitol, and will come in four varieties: Reese's Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups Miniatures, Hershey's Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Candy, Hershey's Sugar Free Chocolate Candy with Almonds and Hershey's Sugar Free Chocolate Candy.