Consumer trends in ice cream industry are shifting towards health and wellness aligning with thier dietary preferences. The ice cream industry is responding to meet these demands. Industry’s growing interest in health and wellness is examined in this article.
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The ice cream market has witnessed a radical shift in consumer preferences toward healthy and low-sugar variant over the past few years. Low calorie and sugar free product options have made their way in the ice cream market landscape. The demand for high protein, low sugar, and low calorie ice creams is increasing which is likely to create more revenues in the global ice cream market over coming years.
The article explores the rise of low-calorie and sugar-free options in the ice cream market, as well as the nutritional benefits and challenges associated with these products. It also provides an overview of the current market size of teh ice cream industry and highlights some prominent brands offering these healthier alternatives.
The global ice cream market continues to record significant strength, with an estimated value of around $70 billion in 2023. This healthy growth is mainly driven by the consumers’ demand for diverse flavours, premium products, and healthier alternatives. Consumers are showing a marked preference towards artisanal and gourmet ice creams, which offer unique and exotic flavors, as well as for low-calorie, dairy-free, and organic options that cater to health-conscious consumers.
The ice cream market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of around 5% during 2023-2028, reflecting constant consumer interest for traditional and new ice cream varieties. Asia-Pacific region showing particularly strong demand, led by the increasing disposable incomes and urbanization rates in this region. North America and Europe are also among the leading key markets, driven by the high preference for indulgence and premium ice cream products.
Trends in Ice Cream Industry
Low calorie, sugar-free ice cream brands have become some of the most prevalent types of healthy ice creams on the market. Brands like Amul, Halo Top, Arctic Zero, and Enlightened have pioneered this segment, offering guilt-free indulgence with significantly fewer calories compared to traditional ice cream.
“Our mission has always been to make ice cream that people can enjoy without the guilt,” says Doug Bouton, CEO of Halo Top. “By using natural sweeteners and high-quality ingredients, we’ve created a product that’s both delicious and low in calories,” Bouton explains.
1. Low-Calorie Ice Cream:
The low-calorie ice-cream is gaining popularity for the fact that it can give you a satisfactory treat without loading you with many calories. These products often use of alternative sweeteners such as erythritol, stevia and monk fruit to reduce calories while maintaining sweetness. Moreover, they use skim milk, whey protein and fiber among others to improve their texture and nutritional content.
“We believe everyone should be able to enjoy a sweet treat, no matter their dietary needs,” states Michael Shoretz, CEO of Enlightened. “Our sugar-free ice creams are crafted to provide the same indulgence as traditional ice cream but without the sugar,” Shoretz pointed out.
2. Sugar-Free Ice Cream:
Sugar-free ice cream caters to consumers who are concerned about their sugar intake may be for weight management, diabetes or over all health. These products use sugar substitutes like sucralose, aspartame and natural sweeteners to achieve the desired taste. Sugar free certainly helps to reduce your sugar but consider artificial sweetener might give you digestion problem.
Amul, the flagship brand of India’s largest milk cooperative, has also launched its sugar-free products. “Even those having diabetics can now enjoy the ice-cream, which we have launched”, a senior officials of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation, Jayen S Mehta said.
Nutritional Benefits and Challenges
It’s no secret that low-calorie and sugar-free ice creams have several health-related benefits. At the same time, they also pose particular nutritional challenges for both consumers and producers.
“We’re committed to offering ice cream that not only tastes great but also fits into a healthy lifestyle,” says Amit Pandhi, CEO of Arctic Zero. “Our products are designed to provide the same enjoyment with fewer calories and less sugar,” Pandhi elaborates.
“Creating a dairy-free ice cream that meets our consumers’ health needs and taste expectations is a constant balancing act,” explains Joe Scalzo, CEO of So Delicious. “We focus on using hgih-quality, plant-based ingredients to deliver a product that is both nutritious and enjoyable.” Scalzo says.
1. Nutritional Benefits:
— Reduced Caloric Intake: Low-calorie ice creams allow consumers to enjoy their favourite dessert without the guilt of high caloric intake, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet.
— Lower Sugar Content: Sugar-free options help in managing blood sugar levels, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes or those looking to reduce sugar consumption.
— Added Nutrients: Many healthier ice cream variants are fortified with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, contributing to a more balanced diet.
2. Nutritional Challenges:
— Taste and Texture: Achieving the rich, creamy texture of traditional ice cream with low-calorie and sugar-free alternatives can be challenging. Manufacturers often experiment with various ingredients and processes to mimic the mouthfeel of full-fat ice cream.
— Ingredient Transparency: Consumers are becoming more discerning about ingredient labels, seeking natural and recognizable components. This demand for clean labeling pushes manufacturers to find innovative ways to produce healthier ice cream without compromising on quality.
— Digestive Issues: Some sugar substitutes, particularly sugar alcohols like erythritol and xylitol, can cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. Brands need to balance the use of these ingredients to minimize potential side effects.
Journey to perfecting these trends continues
The health and wellness trend in the ice cream industry reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards healthier, more mindful eating habits. Low-calorie and sugar-free ice creams have carved out a significant niche in the market, offering alternatives that cater to dietary needs without sacrificing enjoyment. However, the journey to perfecting these healthier options continues as manufacturers strive to balance taste, texture, and nutritional value. As the industry evolves, it will be exciting to see further innovations that meet the growing demand for health-conscious indulgence. With the global ice cream market projected to grow steadily, the focus on trends in health and wellness will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of this beloved treat.
Prominent Brands Offering Healthier Ice Creams
1. Amul Sugar Free ProLife Ice Cream
Amul, a leading dairy brand in India now offers a new range ProLife Sugar Free Ice Cream which is perfect for diabetics who want to enjoy ice creams without any worries. Made with high-quality ingredients and sweetened with artificial sweeteners, this ProLife Sugar Free ice cream ensures a guilt-free indulgence.
2. Kwality Walls Sugar Free Selections
Kwality Walls is a renowned brand of frozen desserts in India offers seven sugar free ice cream flavours besides the basic Vanilla, there’s also Tuttie Fruittie, Saffron Pistachio, Cashew Raisin, Rose Petals, Pistachio Nuts, and Famous Figs.
3. Baskin Robbins D’Lites Sugar Free
Baskin Robbins has introduced a sugar free range that caters specifically to the needs of diabetic ice cream lovers. Their range includes popular flavours like Strawberry and Bavarian Chocolate. All these flavours are made sugar free without compromising on the rich, creamy texture that Baskin Robbins is known for.
4. Halo Top:
Halo Top is renowned for its low-calorie, high-protein ice creams that come in a variety of flavours. Using sugar substitutes like stevia and erythritol, Halo Top has managed to create a product that is both delicious and diet-friendly.
5. Arctic Zero:
Arctic Zero specialises in lactose-free, low-calorie ice creams that are sweetened with monk fruit and organic cane sugar. Their products are also low in fat and high in fibre, catering to health-conscious consumers.
6. Enlightened:
Enlightened offers a range of low-calorie ice creams that are also low in sugar and fat. The brand uses erythritol and monk fruit as sweeteners and incorporates ingredients like skim milk and milk protein concentrate to ensure a creamy texture.
7. Breyers Delights:
Breyers Delights is another popular brand offering low-calorie and high-protein ice creams. They use sugar alcohols and stevia to reduce sugar content while maintaining flavour and sweetness.
8. So Delicious:
So Delicious focuses on plant-based, dairy-free ice creams that are also low in calories. Using coconut milk, almond milk, and cashew milk as bases, they offer a range of flavours that cater to vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers.
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