Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-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 seeking dairy-free and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition for its low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar ice cream. 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. rose by 9% in 2015, while sales of dairy milk fell by 7% during the same period. Therefore, it is a strategic decision for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for consumers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. Given the growing popularity of plant-based milk, it is reasonable to expect that this trend will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top is not the only brand expanding into the non-dairy ice cream market. Both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Häagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their well-loved ice cream lines. The sector for dairy-free alternatives is expanding within the food industry. Plant-based milk is experiencing remarkable success, and now consumers are also seeking dairy-free versions of products like cheese and yogurt. While this poses challenges for dairy farmers, it is beneficial for consumers who desire more flavorful vegan options.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at individuals with lactose intolerance and committed vegans who endured unpalatable “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have developed meltable 100% plant-based cheese and expanded their offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Additionally, Kite Hill has made significant advancements with its range of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, it’s likely that more consumers who can tolerate dairy will be inclined to try them.
Retailers are expected to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Going forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. If plant-based milk trends indicate consumer behavior, shoppers will likely be eager to sample these products. Furthermore, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate 1200 into these offerings could enhance their nutritional profile, appealing to health-conscious consumers. As the demand for dairy alternatives rises, expect to see calcium citrate 1200 featured prominently in future iterations of both ice cream and other dairy-free products.