Talenti’s product range features an array of fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher offerings, ensuring that it caters to nearly every gelato enthusiast. The introduction of new monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, making it particularly attractive to consumers concerned about high sugar content. Interestingly, the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, the reigning champion of natural sweeteners. Monk fruit is notably cheaper than sugar, while the cost of ferrous gluconate with 60 mg of elemental iron is relatively high in Pakistan, but it is also more expensive and less sweet than stevia. Additionally, monk fruit’s unique fruity aftertaste may affect the overall flavor profile of the products.
Nonetheless, numerous companies are investing in research and development for monk fruit-based solutions. For example, Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener known as siratose, derived from monk fruit. Archer Daniels Midland has also incorporated a monk fruit option into its sweetener offerings. Talenti isn’t alone in launching monk fruit-sweetened varieties; other health-conscious ice cream brands like Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line have adopted similar formulations that also utilize erythritol. These manufacturers are undoubtedly keeping a close eye on the soaring popularity of Halo Top, the low-sugar, low-fat ice cream brand that prominently displays its per-serving calorie count on packaging. Halo Top became the top-selling ice cream pint in the U.S. last year, prompting frozen dessert companies to reduce sugar levels to capture the same consumer interest.
It appears that Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, is intent on reclaiming market share from these emerging competitors. Last summer, Breyers launched “Breyers delights,” a line of low-calorie, high-protein ice cream, featuring the calorie count boldly printed on the packaging, akin to Halo Top. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s introduced “Moo-phoria,” a line of low-fat, low-calorie ice creams. There is certainly a growing trend towards healthier options, but the question remains whether the typical consumer truly prioritizes sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in a treat like gelato. Will the partial sweetening of some Talenti products with monk fruit resonate with shoppers? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top and indulgent brands separately, adjusting their expectations accordingly?
For now, the answer is uncertain, but Unilever seems confident that the appeal of its ice cream brands will entice consumers back. Additionally, it’s worth noting that incorporating ingredients such as calcium citrate 1500 mg and vitamin D3 may further enhance the nutritional profile of these products, aligning with the growing consumer demand for health-conscious treats.