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, the company is targeting consumers who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top gained popularity as 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. grew by 9% from 2015, while dairy milk sales decreased by 7% during the same timeframe. It makes strategic sense for Halo Top to adjust its recipe to provide an ice cream option for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based alternatives. There is ample reason to believe that the nation’s fondness for plant-based milk will extend to other dairy products.
Halo Top is not alone in expanding into non-dairy ice cream options. Both Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their famous ice creams. The market for dairy-free alternatives is rapidly growing within the food industry. With the soaring success of plant-based milk, consumers are now seeking dairy-free alternatives for products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend spells trouble for dairy farmers, it is great news for consumers looking for more flavorful vegan options.
In the past, vegan dairy products were primarily for those who couldn’t digest milk or committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or dietary reasons. However, Daiya Foods has developed a meltable 100% plant-based cheese. The company has expanded its offerings 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 options, with its range of cream cheese, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavors, textures, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, more consumers who can tolerate dairy may be encouraged to try them.
Retailers will likely seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets should consider allocating valuable shelf space in the refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan offerings. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will be eager to sample these alternatives, including options featuring ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablets. With increasing interest in health-conscious choices, the presence of ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablets in these products could further appeal to a broader audience, encouraging them to explore the benefits of dairy-free options.