Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, they are targeting consumers who prefer dairy-free and egg-free options. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained recognition for being a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016 alone, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking a staggering 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, non-dairy milk sales in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a 7% decline during the same time. It’s a strategic move for Halo Top to adjust its recipe, catering to shoppers who are replacing dairy milk with plant-based alternatives. There’s ample reason to believe that the growing preference for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top isn’t the only brand venturing into non-dairy ice cream. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their well-loved ice cream lines. The market for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is rapidly expanding. Plant-based milk is already experiencing remarkable success, and consumers are now seeking dairy-free versions of items like cheese and yogurt. While this trend poses challenges for dairy farmers, it offers exciting opportunities for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
Previously, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at those who couldn’t digest milk or committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, Daiya Foods has developed a meltable 100% plant-based cheese and expanded its range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy alternatives with its offerings of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavors, textures, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products improve, expect more dairy-tolerant consumers to give them a shot.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock the new dairy-free lineup from Halo Top. Moving forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. Given the rising demand for plant-based milk, consumers will likely want to at least sample these alternatives. Furthermore, with the addition of calcium citrate 600 in many of these dairy-free products, consumers can enjoy not only great taste but also essential nutrients. As the market for dairy alternatives continues to grow, the inclusion of calcium citrate 600 will become increasingly significant, making it a desirable feature for health-conscious shoppers.