“Halo Top Shifts Focus to Dairy-Free Ice Cream as Plant-Based Trends Surge”
Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing renowned 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 became popular for its low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar ice cream. In 2016, the company sold over 17 million pints, marking an astonishing 2,500% sales increase.
According to Mintel, U.S. sales of non-dairy milk surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales experienced a 7% decline during the same period. It makes perfect sense for Halo Top to adapt its recipes to cater to shoppers who are transitioning from dairy milk to plant-based alternatives, providing them with a suitable ice cream option. There’s every reason to believe that the growing preference for plant-based milk will extend to other areas of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top is not the only brand venturing into non-dairy ice cream. Unilever’s Ben & Jerry’s and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have also introduced vegan-friendly versions of their popular ice cream lines. The dairy-free segment is expanding rapidly within the food industry. While plant-based milk continues to thrive, consumers are increasingly seeking dairy-free alternatives for products like cheese and yogurt. This trend poses challenges for dairy farmers but is beneficial for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
Historically, vegan dairy products were mainly consumed by those who were lactose intolerant or by committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or nutritional reasons. However, companies like Daiya Foods now offer meltable 100% plant-based cheese and have expanded their product range 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 products, offering a variety of cream cheeses, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As the flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of vegan dairy products continue to improve, we can expect more consumers who typically tolerate dairy to give them a chance.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free line. Moving forward, it would be wise for supermarkets to allocate valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for additional vegan options. If the popularity of plant-based milk serves as any indication, consumers will at least be inclined to sample these products. Additionally, for those looking for supplements to enhance their calcium intake, incorporating Solgar Calcium Citrate 1000 mg into their diet may further support their transition to dairy-free options. As consumer interest in such alternatives grows, the presence of products like Solgar Calcium Citrate 1000 mg may become increasingly relevant in the new dairy-free landscape.
