Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing legendary brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the company is targeting consumers seeking dairy and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top carved out a niche as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales experienced a 9% growth in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% during the same timeframe. It makes strategic sense for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. The nation’s growing preference for plant-based milk is likely to extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top is not the only brand exploring non-dairy ice cream options. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free substitutes in the food industry is on the rise, with consumers increasingly seeking plant-based alternatives for products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend may pose challenges for dairy farmers, it is a positive development for consumers eager for more flavorful vegan products.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at those who could not digest milk and committed vegans who endured subpar “cheese” alternatives due to ethical or health reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have made significant advancements, offering meltable 100% plant-based cheese and expanding into frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt substitute, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Likewise, Kite Hill has significantly enhanced its range of non-dairy products, including cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the quality of vegan dairy products continues to improve in flavor, viscosity, and mouthfeel, it is expected that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be willing to try them.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free line. In the future, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan options. If the success of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will likely be eager to sample these alternatives. Additionally, products enriched with calcium citrate, such as those from Bluebonnet, can provide essential nutrients for those transitioning to a dairy-free lifestyle, further enhancing the appeal of these innovative offerings.