Halo Top has emerged as the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Established in 2012, Halo Top quickly gained popularity by offering a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016 alone, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% increase in sales. As consumer preferences shift, Halo Top is now targeting those who prefer dairy-free or egg-free options.
According to Mintel, non-dairy milk sales in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while traditional dairy milk sales fell by 7%. This trend suggests that it’s a savvy strategy for Halo Top to adapt its recipes to cater to shoppers opting for plant-based alternatives. The growing popularity of plant-based milk is likely to extend to other categories in the dairy aisle.
Halo Top is not the only brand venturing into non-dairy ice cream; Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly variants of their beloved ice cream lines. The market for dairy-free alternatives is expanding rapidly, as consumers seek plant-based versions of traditional dairy products like cheese and yogurt. This shift may pose challenges for dairy farmers, but it opens up opportunities for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
Historically, vegan dairy products were mainly consumed by those with lactose intolerance or dedicated vegans who had to settle for subpar “cheese” alternatives. However, brands like Daiya Foods have revolutionized this sector with their meltable 100% plant-based cheese, and they have expanded their offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt substitute, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant advancements with its creams and artisanal cheeses. As the quality of vegan dairy products continues to improve in terms of flavor and texture, it’s likely that more consumers who can tolerate dairy will be inclined to try these options.
Retailers are expected to eagerly embrace Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for a wider range of vegan products. If the surge in plant-based milk sales is any indication, consumers will certainly be interested in sampling these new offerings. Additionally, as consumers become more conscious of their dietary choices, products like Nature’s Bounty Calcium Citrate may also become increasingly popular among those seeking to maintain their health while enjoying dairy-free treats. With the continuous evolution of dairy alternatives, it’s clear that the demand for plant-based options is only set to grow.