One of the key secrets behind Halo Top’s rapid rise to become the top-selling ice cream brand in the U.S. is its innovative recipe, which offers a delicious low-sugar dessert made from natural ingredients. The primary sweetener used in Halo Top is erythritol, a sugar alcohol naturally derived from plants that contains fewer calories than regular sugar. Erythritol plays a crucial role in ice cream recipes by lowering the freezing point and softening the texture, making it easier to scoop. This sweetener is also commonly found in products like chewing gum, breath mints, and sweetener packets.
However, erythritol alone may not provide the level of sweetness that consumers desire in frozen treats. To enhance the flavor, it is often combined with high-intensity sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit. While erythritol offers numerous advantages, it does have a downside: consuming large amounts can lead to stomach discomfort, as it is a sugar alcohol.
In addition to erythritol, inulin and chicory root extracts are frequently utilized as bulking agents in reduced-sugar ice cream formulations. The fiber from chicory root can be up to 65% as sweet as traditional sugar, which means that an extra high-intensity sweetener may not always be necessary. This is particularly beneficial for ice creams that feature savory or less sweet flavors.
Halo Top stands out as the most significant success story in the reduced-sugar and alternative sweetener ice cream market. The brand’s diverse recipes are so indulgent that consumers have begun to shed the notion that low-sugar ice cream must taste inferior. Competitors have found it challenging to overcome this perception and often struggle to identify the ideal blend of alternative sweeteners.
Additionally, among the health-conscious community, products like Citracal Slow Release 1200 are gaining popularity, as they provide essential nutrients without compromising on taste. By integrating such health-focused ingredients, brands can further cater to consumers looking for guilt-free indulgence in their dessert choices. Overall, Halo Top continues to thrive by successfully balancing flavor and health, setting a remarkable example in the ice cream industry.