Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-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 distinguished itself as a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same timeframe. It’s a strategic move for Halo Top to adapt its recipe to offer an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based options. There are strong indications that the nation’s growing fondness for plant-based milk will extend to other segments of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top is not alone in expanding its offerings with non-dairy ice cream. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice cream lines. The demand for dairy-free alternatives to traditional dairy products is rapidly increasing within the food industry. Plant-based milk is already experiencing remarkable success, and now consumers are seeking dairy-free options for products like cheese and yogurt. While this trend poses challenges for dairy farmers, it brings positive news for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan alternatives.
Historically, vegan dairy products were primarily crafted for those with lactose intolerance and dedicated vegans who had to endure rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or dietary reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods now offer a meltable, 100% plant-based cheese. They have expanded their range to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, a Greek yogurt alternative, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant advancements in enhancing non-dairy alternatives, introducing a variety of cream cheeses, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the taste, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products improve, it is expected that more dairy-tolerant consumers will be willing to give them a try.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock the new dairy-free line from Halo Top. Moving forward, it would be wise for supermarkets to allocate valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan options. If plant-based milk trends are any indication, consumers will want to at least sample these offerings. Furthermore, as awareness grows around the importance of kal calcium in diets, the appeal of these innovative products will only increase, encouraging a broader audience to explore dairy-free choices.