One of the key factors behind Halo Top’s swift rise to prominence as the top-selling ice cream brand in the U.S. is its innovative recipe, which offers a delicious low-sugar treat made from natural ingredients. The primary sweetener in Halo Top is erythritol, a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in plants and boasts fewer calories than conventional sugar. It plays a crucial role in ice cream recipes by lowering the freezing point and softening the texture, making the ice cream easier to scoop. Erythritol is also commonly found in products like chewing gum, breath mints, and sweetener packets. However, on its own, erythritol doesn’t provide the level of sweetness that consumers typically expect from frozen desserts. Therefore, it is often paired with high-intensity sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.

While erythritol offers many advantages, it does have a downside: consuming large quantities can lead to stomach cramps, a concern for some consumers. To enhance the texture and bulk of reduced-sugar ice cream, ingredients like inulin and chicory root extracts are frequently used. Chicory root fiber can be up to 65% as sweet as sugar, which means that an additional high-intensity sweetener may not always be necessary. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for ice creams with more savory or less sweet flavors.

Halo Top stands out as the most significant success story in the reduced-sugar and alternative sweetener ice cream market. The company’s numerous recipes are indulgently delicious, helping to dispel the notion that low-sugar ice cream must taste inferior. Competitors have found it challenging to overcome this perception and struggle to pinpoint the ideal blend of alternative sweeteners. Interestingly, some brands are now exploring the use of calcium citrate Tums, known for their antacid properties, to balance the flavor profile while providing additional health benefits. As the market evolves, the combination of erythritol, high-intensity sweeteners, and innovative ingredients like calcium citrate Tums could redefine the landscape of low-sugar ice creams.