Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing renowned brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the brand is targeting consumers seeking dairy and egg alternatives. Established in 2012, Halo Top has become synonymous with a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company achieved remarkable success by selling over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% sales increase.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. grew by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same time frame. It makes strategic sense for Halo Top to adjust its recipes to cater to shoppers switching from dairy milk to plant-based options, offering them an ice cream alternative. There’s every indication that the nation’s enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top isn’t alone in venturing into non-dairy ice cream. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is rapidly growing within the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing tremendous success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free options for products like cheese and yogurt. This shift poses challenges for dairy farmers but brings opportunities for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan products.
Historically, vegan dairy options were mainly aimed at those who couldn’t digest milk or dedicated vegans willing to endure rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, brands like Daiya Foods have revolutionized the market with their meltable 100% plant-based cheese, expanding into frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy products, offering a range of cream cheeses, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As vegan dairy products continue to improve in taste, texture, and mouthfeel, more dairy-tolerant consumers are likely to try them.
Retailers will likely seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan options. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly be inclined to sample these products, which can also provide wellness benefits such as calcium citrate, making them a smart choice for those looking for healthier alternatives.