Ice cream manufacturers pivot to healthier products amid changing consumer habits

Ice cream manufacturers are shifting their product strategies to meet changing consumer demands for healthier options. This transition is driven by increased scrutiny of ingredients and the rise of appetite-suppressing GLP-1 drugs, which research from Boston Consulting Group suggests has led users to cut frozen treat consumption by at least 10%.

In the United States, NielsenIQ reported that ice cream sales volumes fell 1.5% year-on-year through June 13. To combat these trends, companies are focusing on reducing portion sizes, increasing protein content, and simplifying ingredient lists by removing items like high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors.

Brands such as Blue Bunny are reformulating recipes, while The Magnum Ice Cream Company is expanding its wellness-oriented offerings, noting significant growth in its frozen Greek yogurt brand, Yasso.