Talenti’s product lineup features an array of options, including fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher selections, which ensures that its offerings are accessible to nearly all gelato enthusiasts. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, attracting consumers concerned about excessive sugar intake. It is intriguing that the company opted to use the relatively obscure monk fruit instead of stevia, a well-known natural sweetener in the market. While monk fruit is notably cheaper than sugar, it is more costly and less sweet than stevia. Moreover, this sweetening option possesses a fruity aftertaste that may influence the overall flavor profile of the products. Nevertheless, several companies are channeling their research and development efforts into monk fruit-based alternatives. For instance, Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener called siratose, derived from monk fruit. Archer Daniels Midland has also introduced a monk fruit product to its range of sweeteners.
Talenti is not the only ice cream brand launching varieties sweetened with monk fruit; the health-conscious ice cream brand Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line also incorporate this ingredient, along with erythritol. These manufacturers are likely observing the remarkable success of Halo Top, the low-sugar, low-fat ice cream brand that prominently displays its per-serving calorie count on its packaging. Last year, Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S., prompting frozen dessert makers to strive for lower sugar levels to capture similar consumer interest.
It appears that Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, is eager to reclaim market share from newer competitors. Last summer, Breyers introduced low-calorie, high-protein ice cream pints called “Breyers Delights,” with the calorie count boldly printed on the packaging, mirroring Halo Top’s strategy. Recently, Ben & Jerry’s unveiled a low-fat, low-calorie line named “Moo-phoria.” There is certainly a noticeable trend emerging, but it remains uncertain whether the average consumer pays significant attention to sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in a treat like gelato. Will the inclusion of monk fruit as a partial sweetener in some of Talenti’s products influence shopper choices? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top separately from indulgent ice cream brands, having different expectations for each? For now, the answer is unclear, but Unilever appears confident that the star appeal of its ice cream brands will be sufficient to attract consumers back.
In the context of health-conscious choices, the inclusion of ingredients like calcitrate 950 mg can further enhance the appeal of these products. As consumers increasingly seek better-for-you options, the combination of monk fruit and calcitrate 950 mg may resonate with those looking to balance indulgence with nutritional benefits.