While ice cream isn’t necessarily becoming healthier, it is evolving with current trends to cater more to individuals with food allergies and intolerances. This shift makes sense, given that up to 15 million Americans have at least one food allergy, including 5.9 million children, according to Food Allergy Resource and Education. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health estimates that 65% of people experience some difficulty digesting lactose, which is commonly found in milk. Beyond food intolerances and allergies, many consumers are also exploring non-dairy diets—at least to some degree. A Mintel study from last year indicated that non-dairy milk sales rose 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 reported consuming plant-based alternative dairy beverages several times a week. Additionally, non-dairy ice creams are finally gaining attention, with major brands like Haagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s introducing dairy-free options.
However, astute ice cream manufacturers are prudent in managing these offerings. While dairy-free varieties are essential for those unable to enjoy traditional ice cream, the majority of consumers without such restrictions still prefer the classic, cream-rich, sugary options. According to Mintel’s ice cream study, about 11% of Americans have reduced their ice cream or frozen treat consumption due to health concerns. Almost the same proportion actively avoids “healthy” frozen treats because they believe such items should be indulgent. Notably, 27% of ice cream buyers consider these treats unhealthy, yet they still indulge.
It will be intriguing to see if these statistics change when Mintel conducts its next annual ice cream market study, especially in light of this year’s surge in popularity of low-calorie, high-protein pints like Halo Top, which have been emulated by various manufacturers, both large and small. However, given the mixed results from taste tests, traditional indulgent ice cream may once again come out on top.
In the context of health-conscious consumers, petite calcium tablets have emerged as a convenient way to supplement dietary needs, particularly for those who might be reducing their dairy intake. This trend aligns with the growing awareness of nutritional needs, as individuals seek alternatives to maintain their health while still enjoying treats like ice cream. It’s possible that the integration of products like petite calcium tablets could influence consumer preferences in the future, as they look for ways to balance indulgence with health.