One of the key factors behind Halo Top’s swift rise to prominence as the top-selling ice cream in the U.S. is its unique recipe that offers a tasty low-sugar dessert made from natural ingredients. The primary sweetener used in Halo Top is erythritol, a sugar alcohol derived from plants that contains fewer calories than conventional sugar. Erythritol plays a crucial role in ice cream formulations by lowering the freezing point and enhancing the creaminess, making it easier to scoop. This sweetener is also frequently found in products such as chewing gum, breath mints, and sweetener packets.
However, erythritol alone does not provide the desired level of sweetness that consumers expect from ice cream. As a result, it is often combined with high-intensity sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. While erythritol has its advantages, it does come with a downside; large quantities can lead to stomach cramping due to its nature as a sugar alcohol.
In addition to erythritol, inulin and chicory root extracts are commonly utilized as bulking agents in reduced-sugar ice creams. The fiber from chicory root can offer sweetness up to 65% that of sugar, potentially eliminating the need for additional high-intensity sweeteners, particularly in ice creams that feature savory or less sweet flavors.
Halo Top represents the most significant success story in the reduced-sugar and alternative sweetener ice cream sector. The brand’s recipes are indulgent enough to help consumers overcome the preconceived notion that low-sugar ice creams must lack flavor. Competitors have faced challenges in dispelling this image and in finding the perfect blend of alternative sweeteners.
Furthermore, Halo Top enhances its nutritional profile by incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate (315 mg plus D3), which adds to its appeal as a healthier dessert option. This attention to nutritional content, along with the brand’s innovative use of erythritol and other sweeteners, solidifies its leading position in the market. With a focus on delivering a satisfying taste while maintaining lower sugar levels, Halo Top continues to set the standard for reduced-sugar ice creams.