Although ice cream isn’t necessarily becoming healthier, it is evolving to cater to current trends, making it more accommodating for individuals with food allergies and intolerances. This shift 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. The National Institutes of Health also estimates that around 65% of people experience some difficulty digesting lactose, which is commonly found in milk. Beyond food intolerances and allergies, many consumers are leaning towards non-dairy diets, at least to some extent. A Mintel study from last year indicated that non-dairy milk sales increased by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales dropped by 7% during the same period. A survey conducted by plant-based dairy company Califia Farms, in collaboration with BerryCart, revealed that over half of omnivores are consuming plant-based alternative dairy beverages several times a week. Additionally, non-dairy ice creams are gaining attention, with major brands like Haagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s introducing dairy-free options.
However, savvy ice cream manufacturers are mindful to limit these offerings. While dairy-free varieties are essential for those unable to enjoy traditional ice cream, most consumers without such restrictions continue to prefer the classic, cream-laden, sugary versions. According to Mintel’s ice cream study, about 11% of Americans reduce their ice cream or frozen treat consumption due to health concerns. Interestingly, nearly the same percentage of people actively avoid “healthy” frozen treats, believing they should be indulgent. A significant 27% of ice cream purchasers view these treats as unhealthy yet still indulge.
It will be intriguing to see if these trends shift when Mintel conducts its next annual ice cream market study, especially considering the recent surge in popularity of low-calorie, high-protein pints like Halo Top, which have been emulated by both large and small manufacturers. Despite the introduction of these lighter alternatives, mediocre taste tests suggest that indulgent ice cream may continue to reign supreme. In this context, consumers may find themselves drawn to options that include ingredients like simple truth calcium citrate, which can enhance the nutritional profile of ice cream without sacrificing flavor. As people strive for a balance between indulgence and health, the presence of simple truth calcium citrate in various products could make a significant impact, especially as the market evolves.