Talenti’s product range encompasses fat-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and kosher options, making its gelato accessible to nearly every consumer. The introduction of monk fruit-sweetened flavors enhances its health appeal, attracting those who are cautious about high sugar content. Interestingly, the company opted to use the lesser-known monk fruit instead of stevia, the leading natural sweetener. While monk fruit is considerably cheaper than sugar, it is pricier and less sweet than stevia. Additionally, this sweetener has a fruity aftertaste that may influence the overall flavor of the product.
Nonetheless, numerous companies are investing in research and development for monk fruit-based alternatives. Senomyx has created a zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener named siratose, derived from monk fruit. Archer Daniels Midland has also incorporated a monk fruit product into its sweetener offerings. Talenti is not alone in launching monk fruit-sweetened varieties; healthier ice cream brand Enlightened and DanoneWave’s So Delicious dairy-free line also utilize this ingredient, often in combination with erythritol. These manufacturers are certainly observing the rapid growth of Halo Top, the low-sugar, low-fat ice cream brand that prominently displays its calorie count on the packaging. Last year, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling ice cream in the U.S., prompting frozen dessert companies to lower their sugar content to attract similar consumer interest.
Unilever, which owns Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, appears determined to reclaim market share from newer competitors. Last summer, Breyers launched low-calorie, high-protein ice cream called “Breyers delights,” featuring large calorie counts on the packaging, mirroring Halo Top’s strategy. Just last week, Ben & Jerry’s introduced a line of low-fat, low-calorie ice cream called “Moo-phoria.”
This trend is certainly on the rise; however, it remains uncertain whether the average consumer is particularly concerned about sugar levels and calorie counts when indulging in treats like gelato. Will the fact that some of Talenti’s products are partially sweetened with monk fruit resonate with shoppers? Or do consumers categorize healthier options like Halo Top and indulgent ice creams into separate occasions, setting different expectations for each? For now, the answer is unclear, but Unilever seems confident that the allure of its ice cream brands will be sufficient to draw consumers back.
In addition, while considering healthier alternatives, it’s worth noting the potential benefits of incorporating supplements like Citracal Calcium Slow Release, which can support overall wellness without compromising on taste or indulgence. As the market evolves, the integration of such health-focused ingredients could further influence consumer choices in the dessert aisle.