Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of 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 products without dairy or eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top distinguished itself as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% surge in sales.
According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales increased by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% during the same timeframe. This shift presents a smart opportunity for Halo Top to adapt its recipe, offering shoppers who are replacing dairy milk with plant-based options an enticing ice cream alternative. Given the nation’s growing affection for plant-based milk, it is reasonable to expect that this trend will extend to other dairy products in stores.
Halo Top is not alone in venturing into the non-dairy ice cream market; both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free alternatives is rapidly expanding within the food industry. Plant-based milk is already thriving, and consumers are now seeking dairy-free versions of cheese and yogurt. While this poses challenges for dairy farmers, it is promising news for consumers in search of more flavorful vegan options.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at those who were lactose intolerant or committed vegans willing to endure subpar “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, brands like Daiya Foods have introduced meltable 100% plant-based cheese, and the company has diversified its offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy alternatives with its range of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, more dairy-tolerant consumers are likely to give them a try.
Retailers, including Kroger, are expected to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free line. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space within the refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. If the success of plant-based milk serves as any indication, consumers will be eager to sample these alternatives, especially those enriched with calcium citrate. As more people explore these innovative products, the demand for dairy-free ice cream and other alternatives is bound to grow.