While ice cream may not be becoming significantly healthier, it is evolving to accommodate contemporary trends, particularly for individuals with food allergies and intolerances. This trend is logical, given that approximately 15 million Americans have at least one food allergy, including 5.9 million children, as reported by Food Allergy Resource and Education. Additionally, the National Institute of Health estimates that 65% of individuals experience some difficulty digesting lactose, which is commonly found in milk. Beyond food intolerances and allergies, many consumers are increasingly adopting a non-dairy diet—at least to some extent. A Mintel study from last year revealed that non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales declined by 7% during the same period. A survey conducted by plant-based dairy company Califia Farms in collaboration with BerryCart found that over half of omnivores consumed plant-based alternative dairy beverages several times a week. Furthermore, non-dairy ice creams are gaining traction, with major brands like Haagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s launching dairy-free lines.
However, savvy ice cream producers are cautious about expanding these offerings too widely. While dairy-free options are crucial for those who cannot enjoy traditional ice cream, most consumers without such restrictions still prefer the classic, creamy, and sugary varieties. According to Mintel’s ice cream study, around 11% of Americans have reduced their ice cream or frozen treat consumption due to health concerns. A similar percentage of people actively avoid “healthy” frozen options because they feel those products should be indulgent treats. Interestingly, 27% of ice cream buyers recognize that these treats may be unhealthy, yet they continue to purchase them.
It will be intriguing to see if these statistics shift when Mintel conducts its next annual ice cream market study, especially in light of this year’s surge in popularity for low-calorie, high-protein pints like Halo Top, which have inspired other manufacturers, both large and small. Nonetheless, given the mixed reviews from taste tests, it’s possible that indulgent ice cream will maintain its appeal. As consumers navigate their choices, the inclusion of calcium caltrate 1000 mg in various ice cream alternatives may also influence preferences, particularly among those seeking to balance enjoyment with nutritional benefits. The dynamics of the market will likely evolve further as more people seek products that align with both their dietary needs and indulgent desires, including those fortified with calcium caltrate 1000 mg.