Talenti’s product lineup features fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher options, making it accessible to nearly all gelato enthusiasts. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, particularly for consumers cautious about sugar content. It’s noteworthy that the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, a leading natural sweetener in the market. While monk fruit is considerably cheaper than sugar, it is also more costly and less sweet than stevia, and its fruity aftertaste may influence the overall flavor profile of the products. Nevertheless, numerous companies are investing in research and development for monk fruit-based sweeteners. For instance, Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener called siratose derived from monk fruit, and Archer Daniels Midland has introduced a monk fruit option to its sweetener range.
Talenti isn’t the sole ice cream manufacturer launching monk fruit-sweetened varieties; enlightened, a health-conscious ice cream brand, and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line are also utilizing this ingredient alongside erythritol. These brands have undoubtedly been observing the rapid success of Halo Top, a low-sugar, low-fat ice cream that prominently displays its calorie count per serving. Last year, Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S., prompting frozen dessert companies to strive for lower sugar levels to capture similar consumer interest. Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, appears determined to reclaim market share from these emerging brands. Last summer, Breyers launched low-calorie, high-protein ice cream called “Breyers delights,” featuring the calorie count in bold letters on the packaging, much like Halo Top. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s introduced a line of low-fat, low-calorie ice cream named “Moo-phoria.”
This trend is certainly on the rise, but it remains to be seen whether average consumers prioritize sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in treats like gelato. Will the fact that some of Talenti’s offerings are partially sweetened with monk fruit influence shoppers? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top separately from indulgent ice cream brands, adjusting their expectations accordingly? For now, the answer is uncertain, but Unilever seems confident that the allure of its ice cream brands will be sufficient to win back consumers.
Incorporating health-conscious ingredients like bluebonnet calcium magnesium into their formulations could further enhance the appeal of these products, as consumers increasingly seek nutritious options. As the market evolves, the interplay between indulgence and health will continue to shape consumer preferences and industry trends.