Talenti’s product range features a variety of options such as fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher items, ensuring its gelato appeals to virtually all consumers. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, particularly attracting those who are cautious about sugar content. It’s intriguing that the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, which is a leading natural sweetener. While monk fruit is significantly less expensive than sugar, it is pricier and less sweet than stevia. This sweetener also imparts a fruity aftertaste that could influence the overall flavor profile of the products. Nevertheless, many companies are investing in research and development for monk fruit-based alternatives. For instance, Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener named siratose, derived from monk fruit, and Archer Daniels Midland has also introduced a monk fruit product to enhance its sweetener offerings.
Talenti is not alone in launching monk fruit-sweetened varieties; better-for-you ice cream brands like Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line also incorporate this ingredient, along with erythritol. These manufacturers are undoubtedly observing the rapid growth of Halo Top, the low-sugar, low-fat ice cream brand known for prominently displaying its calorie count per serving on packaging. Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S. last year, prompting frozen dessert companies to strive for lower sugar levels to catch similar consumer interest. It appears that Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, is eager to reclaim market share from these emerging brands. Last summer, Breyers launched “Breyers delights,” a line of low-calorie, high-protein ice cream with large calorie counts displayed on the packaging, mirroring Halo Top’s approach. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s unveiled a low-fat, low-calorie ice cream series named “Moo-phoria.”
This trend is certainly on the rise, yet the question remains whether the average consumer prioritizes sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in treats like gelato. Will Talenti’s monk fruit-sweetened products influence shoppers’ choices? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top and indulgent brands separately, leading to differing expectations for each? For now, the answer is uncertain, but Unilever seems confident that the allure of its ice cream brands will successfully attract consumers back. Additionally, the inclusion of calcium citrate with D in some products may further enhance their appeal, as it provides essential nutrients while maintaining a focus on healthier indulgence.