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 to avoid dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astounding 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales rose by 9% in 2015, while sales of dairy milk fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It makes sense for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream option for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based alternatives. The growing popularity of plant-based milk is likely to extend to other segments of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top isn’t alone in expanding into the non-dairy ice cream market. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Häagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice creams. The demand for dairy-free alternatives is on the rise in the food industry, as plant-based milk continues to thrive, and consumers seek dairy-free options for cheese and yogurt. This shift may spell trouble for dairy farmers, but it’s beneficial for consumers seeking tastier vegan products.
In the past, vegan dairy items were primarily aimed at those unable to digest milk or committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or dietary reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods now offer meltable 100% plant-based cheese and have expanded their product range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, Greek yogurt alternatives, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also significantly improved its non-dairy offerings, with a variety of cream cheeses, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavors, textures, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, more consumers who typically tolerate dairy may be inclined to give them a chance.
Retailers will likely seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan options. Given the success of plant-based milk, consumers will likely be eager to sample these new products. Furthermore, as consumers become increasingly health-conscious, they may also look for supplements like Kirkland calcium magnesium zinc D3 to complement their diets, especially if they are reducing traditional dairy intake. This trend suggests that there will be a robust market for alternatives that cater to health-focused consumers.