Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the company is targeting consumers seeking dairy 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 company sold over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, non-dairy milk sales in the U.S. saw a 9% growth in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It’s a strategic move for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to cater to shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based alternatives, offering them a suitable ice cream option. There’s ample reason to believe that the country’s enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top is not alone in expanding its offerings with a non-dairy ice cream. Both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Häagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice creams. The market for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is rapidly growing. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free options for products like cheese and yogurt. This trend poses challenges for dairy farmers but is beneficial for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan choices.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily consumed by those with lactose intolerance and committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. Nowadays, Daiya Foods offers a meltable 100% plant-based cheese and has expanded its product line to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also significantly improved its non-dairy alternatives, featuring cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavors, textures, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to enhance, it’s expected that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be inclined to sample them.
Retailers are likely to eagerly embrace the new dairy-free offerings from Halo Top. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan products. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will likely be interested in sampling these new options. Additionally, products that incorporate source naturals CCM calcium could appeal to health-conscious shoppers seeking both flavor and nutritional benefits in their dairy-free choices.