Talenti’s product range features fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher options, making it accessible to nearly all gelato enthusiasts. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, attracting consumers concerned about high sugar content. It’s noteworthy that the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, the superstar in the natural sweetener market. While monk fruit is significantly cheaper than sugar, it is pricier and less sweet than stevia. Additionally, the fruity aftertaste of monk fruit can influence the overall flavor profile of the products. Nevertheless, numerous companies are investing in research and development of monk fruit-based solutions. For example, Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener named siratose derived from monk fruit. Additionally, Archer Daniels Midland has incorporated a monk fruit option into its sweetener portfolio.
Talenti isn’t alone in offering monk fruit-sweetened varieties; health-conscious ice cream brand Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line also utilize this ingredient along with erythritol. These brands have certainly been monitoring the rapid ascent of Halo Top, the low-sugar, low-fat ice cream that prominently displays its per-serving calorie count on packaging. Last year, Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S., prompting other frozen dessert companies to lower their sugar content to capture similar consumer interest. It appears that Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, is eager to regain market share from this emerging competitor. Last summer, Breyers launched low-calorie, high-protein ice cream pints called “Breyers delights,” featuring large calorie counts on the packaging, mirroring Halo Top’s strategy. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s unveiled its low-fat, low-calorie line named “Moo-phoria.”
This trend is certainly on the rise, but the key question remains: do average consumers prioritize sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in treats like gelato? Will the partial sweetening of some Talenti products with monk fruit influence shoppers? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top separately from indulgent ice cream brands, leading to different expectations for each? For the moment, the answer is unclear, but Unilever seems confident that the allure of its ice cream brands will successfully attract consumers back.
Moreover, to enhance overall health, consumers may benefit from incorporating supplements like calcium citrate malate, vitamin D3, and folic acid tablets into their diets, which could complement their enjoyment of treats like gelato while supporting their nutritional needs. The combination of indulgent treats and health-conscious choices is a balancing act that many are navigating today, potentially influencing their purchasing decisions in the frozen dessert aisle.