Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing renowned brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, they are targeting consumers seeking healthy options that exclude dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% increase in sales. According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% during the same timeframe. It makes sense for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. There is every reason to believe that the nation’s enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other areas of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top is not alone in expanding its offerings with non-dairy ice cream. Both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice cream lines. Dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products are becoming an increasingly significant segment of the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free options for products like cheese and yogurt. This shift is unfortunate for dairy farmers but beneficial for consumers looking for tasty vegan products.
In the past, vegan dairy options were primarily aimed at those who couldn’t digest milk or strict vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods have introduced meltable 100% plant-based cheese. They have expanded their range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecake, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Similarly, Kite Hill has made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy alternatives with its selection of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As vegan dairy products continue to improve in flavor, texture, and mouthfeel, more dairy-tolerant consumers can be expected to give them a try.
Retailers will likely seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup, which emphasizes healthy options. Supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan choices. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly want to sample these new products. Additionally, incorporating healthy options that provide calcium citrate can attract even more health-conscious shoppers.