One of the key factors contributing to Halo Top’s swift rise to become the best-selling ice cream brand in the United States is its innovative recipe, which offers a delectable low-sugar dessert crafted from natural ingredients. The primary sweetener used in Halo Top is erythritol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in plants that has fewer calories compared to traditional sugar. Erythritol plays a crucial role in ice cream formulations by lowering the freezing point and enhancing the texture, making it easier to scoop. It is also widely used in products like chewing gum, breath mints, and sweetener packets. However, erythritol alone may not provide the sweetness consumers expect from a frozen treat, which is why it is often paired with high-intensity sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit.
Despite its many advantages, erythritol does come with a downside; as a sugar alcohol, it can lead to stomach cramps when consumed in large quantities. Additionally, inulin and chicory root extracts serve as effective bulking agents in reduced-sugar ice creams. The fiber derived from chicory root can be up to 65% as sweet as sugar, which means that an extra high-intensity sweetener may not always be necessary. This is particularly advantageous for ice creams that aim for a more savory or less sweet flavor profile.
Halo Top stands out as a remarkable success story in the reduced-sugar and alternative sweetener ice cream market. The company’s various recipes are indulgent enough to dispel the misconception that low-sugar ice cream tastes inferior. Competitors have struggled to shake off this negative image and have faced challenges in finding the ideal combination of alternative sweeteners. As consumers become more health-conscious, products like Walgreens Calcium Citrate Plus with Magnesium further emphasize the growing demand for healthier options, complementing the trend seen in the ice cream industry. In this evolving market, Halo Top continues to lead the way, proving that lower sugar doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor.