While ice cream isn’t necessarily becoming healthier, it is evolving to meet current trends, making it more accessible to individuals with food allergies and intolerances. This shift is understandable, given that around 15 million Americans have at least one food allergy, including 5.9 million children, according to Food Allergy Resource and Education. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health estimates that 65% of people have some difficulty digesting lactose, which is commonly found in milk.
Despite the challenges posed by food intolerances and allergies, many consumers are leaning towards non-dairy diets, at least to some extent. A Mintel study from last year revealed that non-dairy milk sales increased by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales dropped by 7% during the same period. In a survey conducted by plant-based dairy company Califia Farms in collaboration with BerryCart, over half of omnivores reported consuming plant-based alternative dairy beverages several times a week. Additionally, non-dairy ice creams are finally gaining attention, with major brands like Haagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s launching dairy-free lines.
However, smart ice cream manufacturers recognize the importance of balancing these offerings. While dairy-free options cater to a specific demographic unable to enjoy traditional ice cream, most consumers without such restrictions still prefer the classic, creamy, sugary varieties. According to Mintel’s ice cream study, around 11% of Americans are reducing their intake of ice cream or frozen treats due to health concerns. Nearly the same percentage actively avoids “healthy” frozen treats because they prefer indulgent options. Interestingly, 27% of ice cream purchasers believe these treats are unhealthy but buy them anyway.
It will be intriguing to see if these statistics change in Mintel’s next annual study of the ice cream market, especially considering this year’s surge in the popularity of low-calorie, high-protein pints like Halo Top, which have been imitated by various manufacturers, both large and small. However, given the mixed reviews on flavor, traditional indulgent ice cream may continue to reign supreme.
On a related note, many consumers are also exploring other nutritional supplements such as calcium citrate 600 mg tablets to support their health, highlighting the ongoing interest in balancing indulgence with well-being. The incorporation of calcium citrate 600 mg tablets into diets may influence choices around ice cream and other treats, as people seek to enjoy their favorites while maintaining their health. As the market evolves, it will be fascinating to see how these trends intersect.