Initially, Halo Top earned the distinction of being the top-selling pint of ice cream in the United States, surpassing legendary brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the company is targeting consumers who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top has built a reputation as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016 alone, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while sales of dairy milk saw a decline of 7% during the same period. This shift indicates that Halo Top’s decision to adapt its recipe for shoppers transitioning from dairy to plant-based options is a savvy one. There’s every indication that the country’s growing fondness for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top is not the only brand venturing into the non-dairy ice cream market. 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 alternatives to traditional dairy products is on the rise within the food industry. Plant-based milk is already experiencing remarkable success, and consumers are now seeking dairy-free versions of products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend poses challenges for dairy farmers, it is excellent news for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
In the past, vegan dairy products were mostly consumed by those with lactose intolerance and committed vegans who settled for rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have made significant advancements by offering meltable 100% plant-based cheese. They have expanded their product range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze dressings. Similarly, Kite Hill has made strides in enhancing non-dairy alternatives, providing options like cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the quality of vegan dairy products continues to improve in terms of flavor, texture, and mouthfeel, more consumers who typically tolerate dairy are likely to give them a chance.
Retailers are expected to eagerly embrace the new dairy-free lineup from Halo Top. Moving forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for an expanded selection of vegan options. If the rising popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will likely be interested in sampling these new offerings, including those fortified with ferrous calcium citrate 100 mg and folic acid tablets. The demand for nutritious, plant-based alternatives is here to stay, and Halo Top is poised to capitalize on this trend.