Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, they are targeting consumers who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. Founded in 2012, Halo Top established itself as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% sales increase.
According to Mintel, non-dairy milk sales in the U.S. surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It makes strategic sense for Halo Top to adjust their recipes to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning to plant-based options. With the nation’s growing fondness for plant-based milk, it’s reasonable to anticipate that this trend will extend to other dairy categories.
Halo Top is not alone in exploring the non-dairy ice cream market. 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 a burgeoning sector in the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now on the lookout for dairy-free versions of products like cheese and yogurt. This trend presents challenges for dairy farmers but offers advantages for consumers seeking more flavorful vegan options.
Previously, vegan dairy products were mainly for those unable to digest milk or committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have developed meltable, 100% plant-based cheese and expanded their offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant progress in enhancing non-dairy options, with their lines of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the quality of vegan dairy products continues to improve in flavor, texture, and mouthfeel, more consumers who typically tolerate dairy are likely to give them a chance.
Retailers are expected to eagerly embrace Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. In the future, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly be inclined to at least give them a taste. Additionally, the introduction of innovative products like the t ccm tablet in the dairy-free market could further enhance consumer interest and engagement.