Initially, Halo Top captured the title of the best-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 dairy-free and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained popularity as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, reflecting an astonishing 2,500% surge in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It’s a wise strategy for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy to plant-based options. This shift in consumer preference for plant-based milk is likely to extend to other dairy products as well.
Halo Top is not the only brand exploring non-dairy ice cream options. Both Ben & Jerry’s, owned by Unilever, and Haagen-Dazs, part of General Mills, have introduced vegan versions of their beloved ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is a rapidly growing segment within the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free alternatives for products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend is challenging for dairy farmers, it is beneficial for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan products.
Previously, vegan dairy items were primarily aimed at individuals with lactose intolerance and committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. Today, however, companies like Daiya Foods have developed meltable 100% plant-based cheese and expanded their range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt substitute, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy options, offering cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the taste, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, it’s likely that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be inclined to try them.
Retailers are expected to eagerly embrace Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan choices. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will be curious enough to at least sample these options. Furthermore, the incorporation of calcium citrate only in these dairy alternatives could serve to enhance their nutritional profile, making them even more appealing to health-conscious shoppers. As this market evolves, expect to see calcium citrate only options becoming a common feature in dairy-free products, reinforcing the trend toward healthier choices.