Global ice cream market balances indulgence with healthier choices

GLOBAL – Global ice cream and frozen yogurt trends indicate a growing demand for indulgence balanced with health-conscious choices, according to a report by Innova’s 360 research. 

The report highlights the latest product launches, evolving consumer preferences, and innovative developments in the sector.

The ice cream and frozen yogurt category has experienced a 6% increase in product launches over the past year, driven by a shift towards healthier options. 

Reports indicate that 36% of consumers globally prefer limiting unhealthy ingredients in indulgent foods. 

As a result, brands have introduced products incorporating natural sweeteners such as stevia and monk fruit extract, as well as those made with fruit pulp and juice concentrates. 

These offerings align with the 2024 trend ‘Indulging in Health,’ which reflects the growing consumer interest in balancing indulgence with well-being.

Dairy-based ice cream and frozen yogurt remain dominant, accounting for 93% of product launches within the category. 

Europe leads the global market in new product introductions, followed by the Asia-Pacific region, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. 

Reports suggest that European consumers increasingly value locally sourced ingredients, with products emphasizing single-origin Belgian chocolate, Italian gelato, and crème fraîche from France gaining popularity. 

This trend aligns with the concept of ‘Local Goes Global,’ which highlights a rising preference for familiar, authentic offerings extending beyond regional boundaries.

Unilever has emerged as the leading company in global ice cream and frozen yogurt product launches. 

The company continues to expand its range by offering diverse flavor combinations and formats tailored to different consumer demographics. 

Reports also indicate a surge in demand for locally inspired fruit flavors, available in formats such as parlor-style servings, bite-sized treats, and family packs. 

A spokesperson from Unilever stated, “Consumers today are looking for indulgence that matches their lifestyle needs, and we are continuously innovating to provide just that.”

Other major players shaping the ice cream and frozen yogurt market include Aldi, General Mills, Lidl, Froneri, Nestlé, and Lotte. 

These top seven companies collectively account for 28% of global product launches in the past year. 

Reports highlight that brands are also focusing on specific product claims such as vegetarian, gluten-free, indulgent and premium, and no additives or preservatives, with regional preferences influencing the positioning of these products. 

In North America, demand for plant-based and high-protein options is on the rise, while the Middle East and Africa see growing interest in natural and vegan offerings.

Milk chocolate remains the most popular flavor in the ice cream and frozen yogurt category, followed by vanilla, strawberry, caramel, and almond. 

Reports indicate that 30% of global consumers prefer milk chocolate flavors in desserts, often combined with ingredients such as caramel, peanut butter, nuts, and cookies. 

Additionally, fruit-infused milk chocolate variations featuring berries, citrus, and tropical fruits have gained traction. 

A report on consumer preferences states, “Indulgence remains a key motivator, with one in five consumers globally influenced by indulgent aspects in their choices.”

Looking ahead, natural ingredients and premium indulgence are expected to shape the future of the ice cream industry. 

Research findings show a 10% rise in indulgent and premium offerings over the past year, with brands focusing on rich flavors such as caramel and chestnut, dessert-inspired combinations, and textural innovations like creamy, crunchy, and fudge-like consistencies. 

With nearly one in five consumers preferring ice creams free from artificial flavors and colors, brands are expected to incorporate more natural flavoring agents such as vanilla and natural colorants like curcumin and spirulina extracts to meet evolving preferences.

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