While ice cream isn’t necessarily becoming healthier, it is evolving to meet current trends, making it more suitable for individuals with food allergies and intolerances. This adaptation is logical, given that approximately 15 million Americans have at least one food allergy, including 5.9 million children, according to Food Allergy Resource and Education. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health estimates that 65% of people experience some difficulty digesting the lactose commonly found in milk. Beyond food intolerances and allergies, many consumers are leaning towards a non-dairy diet—at least to some extent. A Mintel study from last year indicated that non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while traditional dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% in the same period. A survey conducted by plant-based dairy company Califia Farms in collaboration with BerryCart revealed that over half of omnivores consume plant-based alternative dairy beverages several times a week.
Moreover, non-dairy ice creams are finally gaining attention, with major brands like Haagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s launching dairy-free lines. However, savvy ice cream manufacturers are cautious about expanding these offerings too much. Although dairy-free varieties are crucial for those who cannot enjoy traditional ice cream, the majority of consumers without dietary restrictions still prefer the classic, rich, and sugary options. According to Mintel’s ice cream study, around 11% of Americans are reducing their consumption of ice cream or frozen treats due to health concerns. Interestingly, a similar percentage of people actively avoid “healthy” frozen treats because they believe such items should be indulgent. In fact, 27% of ice cream buyers consider the treats unhealthy, yet they continue to purchase them.
It will be intriguing to see if these trends shift when Mintel conducts its next annual study of the ice cream market, especially in light of this year’s surge in popularity of low-calorie, high-protein pints like Halo Top, which have been imitated by various manufacturers, both large and small. However, considering the lackluster results from taste tests, it’s possible that indulgent ice cream will regain its dominance. As consumers navigate their choices, it’s worth noting that some may also be looking to supplement their diets with products like Citracal Petites with D3 for added nutritional benefits, reflecting a broader trend towards health and wellness.