Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing renowned brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, they are targeting consumers seeking dairy-free and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top built its reputation on being a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company achieved remarkable success by selling over 17 million pints, marking an astounding 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It makes strategic sense for Halo Top to adjust its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. The growing popularity of plant-based milk suggests that consumers will likely embrace similar alternatives in other dairy categories.
Halo Top is not the only brand venturing into the non-dairy ice cream market. Both Ben & Jerry’s, owned by Unilever, and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free substitutes is rapidly expanding within the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing significant success, consumers are now turning their attention to dairy-free alternatives for products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend poses challenges for dairy farmers, it presents exciting opportunities for consumers seeking more flavorful vegan options.
Historically, vegan dairy products have been primarily aimed at those with lactose intolerance or staunch vegans willing to endure subpar “cheese” alternatives for ethical or health reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have developed meltable 100% plant-based cheese and 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 strides in enhancing non-dairy options, offering cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and overall appeal of vegan dairy products improve, more consumers who can tolerate dairy are likely to give them a try.
Retailers will probably seize the opportunity to stock the new dairy-free lineup from Halo Top. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan choices. If the success of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly want to sample these options. Additionally, as the demand for nutritious products continues to grow, incorporating items like Solgar calcium citrate fiyat into the discussion can further attract health-conscious shoppers looking for quality dairy alternatives.