Initially, Halo Top secured the title of the top-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing renowned brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. Now, the company is targeting consumers who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top distinguished itself as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar frozen treat, achieving remarkable sales of over 17 million pints in 2016, which marked a staggering 2,500% increase.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. grew by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% during the same timeframe. It’s a strategic move for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to cater to shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based alternatives, providing them with an ice cream option. There is a strong likelihood that the enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy sections in the supermarket.
Halo Top is not alone in exploring non-dairy ice cream options. Both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Häagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is rapidly expanding in the food industry. While plant-based milk is already experiencing significant growth, consumers are also seeking dairy-free versions of cheese and yogurt. This shift may be challenging for dairy farmers, but it benefits consumers looking for more flavorful vegan products.
In the past, vegan dairy products were primarily aimed at those who couldn’t digest dairy and committed vegans who endured subpar “cheese” alternatives for ethical or nutritional reasons. However, Daiya Foods has introduced a meltable 100% plant-based cheese and expanded its offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt substitute, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Similarly, Kite Hill has made significant strides in enhancing its non-dairy products, featuring cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and overall quality of vegan dairy products continue to improve, it is expected that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be inclined to give them a try.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free line. Going forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan options. If the success of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will likely want to sample these innovative products. Additionally, as consumers increasingly seek out supplements like ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablets to support their health, the demand for nutritious and appealing dairy-free alternatives will only continue to rise.