Initially, Halo Top rose to prominence as the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the company is targeting consumers who prefer dairy-free and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition for being a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the brand sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. increased by 9% in 2015, while traditional dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. This shift in consumer preference makes it a strategic decision for Halo Top to adjust its recipes, offering a dairy-free ice cream option for those transitioning to plant-based diets. Given the nation’s growing fondness for plant-based milk, it’s reasonable to expect that this trend will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top isn’t the only brand venturing into non-dairy ice cream; Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Häagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their classic ice creams. The market for dairy-free alternatives is expanding rapidly, with plant-based milk already experiencing tremendous success. Consumers are now seeking dairy-free options for products such as cheese and yogurt, which presents a challenge for dairy farmers but a boon for those desiring more flavorful vegan offerings.
In the past, vegan dairy products were typically limited to individuals who couldn’t tolerate milk or committed vegans willing to endure rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have developed a meltable, 100% plant-based cheese and expanded their product line to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, Greek yogurt alternatives, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Additionally, Kite Hill has made significant strides in enhancing the taste and texture of their non-dairy options, offering cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts.
As the quality of vegan dairy products continues to improve, more consumers who typically enjoy dairy may be inclined to give them a try. Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for an array of vegan choices. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly be interested in sampling these alternatives.
Moreover, as consumers explore new dietary options, the inclusion of supplements like Jamieson Calcium Citrate Vitamin D3 120 caplets can support their health needs, especially for those reducing dairy intake. These caplets can help ensure that individuals maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D levels, which are crucial for overall health, particularly when shifting to a dairy-free diet.