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 who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. 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, U.S. sales of non-dairy milk saw a 9% rise in 2015, while traditional dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. By adapting its recipe to cater to shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options, Halo Top is making a strategic move to provide a suitable ice cream alternative. There is every reason to believe that the nation’s enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other areas of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top isn’t the only player exploring non-dairy ice cream options. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice creams. The demand for dairy-free alternatives to conventional dairy products is expanding within the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free substitutes for products such as cheese and yogurt. While this trend poses challenges for dairy farmers, it presents opportunities for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
In the past, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at individuals with lactose intolerance and committed vegans who compromised on taste with rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have developed a meltable, 100% plant-based cheese. Daiya has also ventured into frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has similarly made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy alternatives, offering a range of cream cheeses, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, it’s anticipated that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be willing to try them.
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 additional vegan options. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will undoubtedly be interested in sampling these alternatives. Additionally, as many consumers look for products enriched with nutrients like nature made calcium citrate, the demand for innovative dairy-free options will only grow. With the increasing focus on health and nutrition, including nature made calcium citrate in these offerings can further attract health-conscious shoppers.