Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, they are targeting consumers seeking dairy and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition for offering a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking a remarkable 2,500% sales increase.
According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a 7% decline during the same timeframe. It makes sense for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. There’s ample reason to believe that the nation’s fondness for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy categories.
Halo Top is not alone in exploring non-dairy ice cream options. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice cream lines. The market for dairy-free substitutes is expanding rapidly in the food industry. Plant-based milk is already enjoying tremendous success, and consumers are increasingly seeking dairy-free alternatives for products such as cheese and yogurt. This trend poses challenges for dairy farmers but presents opportunities for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan offerings.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily for those who couldn’t digest milk or dedicated vegans who endured rubbery cheese slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have introduced meltable 100% plant-based cheese and have expanded their product range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant advancements in non-dairy alternatives, offering cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As vegan dairy products continue to enhance their taste, texture, and mouthfeel, it’s likely that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be inclined to give them a chance.
Retailers are expected to eagerly embrace the new dairy-free lineup from Halo Top. Going forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will likely want to at least sample these new offerings, which can also include innovative ingredients like calcium citrate 2000 mg for added health benefits. As the demand for dairy-free products grows, Halo Top’s expansion into this market reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences.