Talenti’s product range features fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher options, making it suitable for nearly every gelato lover. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, attracting consumers concerned about high sugar content. It’s noteworthy that the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, which is a frontrunner in the natural sweetener market. While monk fruit is considerably less expensive than sugar, it is pricier and not as sweet as stevia. Additionally, this sweetener can impart a fruity aftertaste that might affect the overall flavor profile of the products. Nevertheless, various companies are pouring resources into research and development for monk fruit-based solutions. For instance, Senomyx has introduced a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener named siratose derived from monk fruit. Archer Daniels Midland has also incorporated a monk fruit product into its sweetener offerings.
Talenti isn’t alone in launching monk fruit-sweetened varieties; other brands like Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious, which focus on healthier ice cream options, also utilize monk fruit along with erythritol in their formulations. These manufacturers have likely taken note of the rapid success of Halo Top, a low-sugar, low-fat ice cream brand that prominently displays its calorie count per serving on its packaging. Last year, Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S., prompting frozen dessert companies to lower their sugar content to attract similar consumer interest.
Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, appears determined to reclaim market share from emerging brands. Last summer, Breyers launched low-calorie, high-protein ice cream called “Breyers delights,” featuring calorie counts prominently on the packaging, echoing Halo Top’s strategy. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s unveiled a line of low-fat, low-calorie ice cream named “Moo-phoria.”
While there is undoubtedly a growing trend towards healthier options, it remains uncertain whether the average consumer prioritizes sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in treats like gelato. Will the inclusion of monk fruit in some of Talenti’s products influence shoppers’ decisions? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top separately from indulgent brands, adjusting their expectations accordingly? For now, the answer is unclear, but Unilever seems optimistic that the allure of its ice cream brands will successfully attract consumers back.
In addition, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate could further enhance the nutritional profile of these products, making them even more appealing to health-conscious buyers. The use of calcium citrate could be a beneficial addition, especially since it provides essential nutrients that consumers are increasingly seeking in indulgent treats. As the market evolves, the influence of ingredients such as calcium citrate may play a significant role in shaping consumer preferences.